April is Jazz Appreciation month and to celebrate, WBGO 88.3 FM is presenting a Free Kids Jazz Concert Series. Each Saturday in April, world-renowned jazz musicians will perform hour-long concerts at various venues in Essex County to give local children an introduction to this musical genre. By immersing children into the music, they can gain an appreciation for the improvisational nature of jazz and also learn about the history and culture surrounding it. These concerts are free, but all adults must be accompanied by at least one child.
Catch one or all of these upcoming performances!
Brianna Thomas & The Jazz Travelers present “Swing Makes You Sing!”
When: April 9, 12:30 PM. Doors open at noon.
Where: Newark Museum, 49 Washington Street, Newark
Join vocalist Brianna Thomas on a musical journey and explore the history of jazz in America. After the show, enjoy free admission to the Newark Museum. This performance is best for ages 5-18.
Camille Thurman & The Darrell Green Trio present “Rhythm and Justice: Music as a Voice of Social Justice”
When: April 16, 12:30 PM. Doors open at noon.
Where: Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert H. Harp Drive, Livingston
See how jazz musicians use their music to raise awareness about social and civil injustice. This performance is best for ages 5-15.
Don Braden presents “From Sassy to Shorter: Celebrating Newark Jazz Masters”
When: April 23, 12:30 PM. Doors open at noon.
Where: NJPAC Victoria Theater, 1 Center Street, Newark
As part of Newark 350, a celebration of Newark’s 350th anniversary, Don Braden and his sextet will perform the music of artists from Newark including Sarah Vaughan, James Moody, Wayne Shorter, and more. This performance is best for ages 10-18.There are additional events planned for this day at NJPAC including a Jazz for Teens Prelude Performance at noon.
Winard Harper & Jeli Posse present “Jazz: Food for the Soul”
When: April 30, 12:30 PM. Doors open at noon.
Where: Montclair Art Museum, 3 South Mountain Avenue, Montclair
In celebration of International Jazz Day, drummer Winard Harper and his group Jeli Posse will play jazz rooted in African and Caribbean traditions. After the show, enjoy free admission to the Montclair Art Museum. This performance is best for ages 5-11.www.wbgo.org/kidsjazz/concert