DECATUR, Ala. — The Alabama Center for the Arts Jazz Festival and the Calhoun Community College Music Department, themed "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans," is set to take place on Saturday, April 13 in Decatur. The event, organized by the ACA, promises a vibrant showcase of jazz performances featuring university, college, high school, middle school, community, and professional jazz ensembles.
Guests set to appear include Delfeayo Marsalis and Jason Marsalis, with Tim Leahey from the Airmen of Note and Dr. Mitch Butler, SC COLA Jazz Education Director, as clinicians. Adjudicators Bo Clayton from Austin Peay University and Monica Shriver, Nashville musician and author of "Brave Musician."
Educational performing groups can expect feedback through written comments and brief clinics. The festival will span multiple venues including the Alabama Center for the Arts, downtown Decatur, the Princess Theatre, and The Brick. Live music will fill the air from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with a clinic and Q&A session featuring the Marsalis brothers at 1 p.m. Additionally, Yamaha Instruments will have a presentation.
The highlight of the day will be a finale concert at the Princess Theatre at 7 p.m., featuring artists, special guests, and the Calhoun Community College Show Band/Jazz Combo. Following the finale, an after-party "jam session" will kick off at The Brick.
The ACA Jazz Festival is free and open to the public.