News Summary
The Michigan Jazz Festival, a staple of Livonia’s music scene, is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2025 with a spring fundraiser on April 13 at Schoolcraft College’s Vistatech Center. The event will feature the Latin jazz combo Aguankó, promising an unforgettable musical experience. Tickets are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting local musicians as the festival prepares for its free-entry main event in July.
Excitement Builds as Michigan Jazz Festival Marks 30 Years with Spring Fundraiser
Livonia is buzzing with excitement as the Michigan Jazz Festival gears up to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2025! This annual event has become a cornerstone of the local music scene, taking place on the third Sunday in July. But before we dive into the summer festivities, there’s an eagerly anticipated spring fundraiser happening soon that you won’t want to miss!
Spring Fundraiser Details
On Sunday, April 13, the Michigan Jazz Festival will host its spring fundraiser at the beautiful Schoolcraft College’s Vistatech Center in Livonia. This event is a fantastic opportunity to show support for local musicians while enjoying an afternoon of incredible music. The concert will kick off at 3 p.m. and promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Get Ready for Aguankó
One standout feature of this year’s fundraiser is the talented Latin jazz combo, Aguankó. This ensemble vibrantly showcases the dynamic spirit of Latin jazz, led by the multi-talented Alberto Nacif on congas and percussion. Joining him are a group of equally skilled musicians, including Wesley Reynoso on piano, Pat Prouty on bass, Russ Miller on sax and flute, Charlie Miller on trumpet, Leonard King on drums, and Rob Killips on trombone. Together, they create an electrifying atmosphere that fans loyal to the genre love.
Aguankó’s Musical Journey
Excitingly, Aguankó will perform tracks from four of their five albums, including their latest release, “Unidad,” which soared to the top of The Roots Music Report’s Top 50 Jazz Album Chart in 2023. While the performance won’t include selections from their Christmas album, attendees can expect a delightful mix of their vibrant offerings that truly highlight this incredible group’s range and talent.
Supporting Local Musicians
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the Michigan Jazz Festival is its unwavering commitment to promoting local talent. The festival exclusively showcases musicians from Michigan or those with strong ties to the state, making it a unique celebration of the area’s rich musical heritage. Alberto Nacif, the band leader of Aguankó, shares a deep connection to Detroit that is reflected in his music. The festival’s ethos revolves around community and supporting local creativity, which resonates strongly with attendees and performers alike.
Keeping the Music Free
The Michigan Jazz Festival is known for being a free-entry event, a rarity in today’s concert landscape. This accessibility allows everyone from the casual listener to die-hard jazz enthusiasts to enjoy an array of over 40 musical groups spread across seven stages in the heart of the city. Festival board member Bart Polot emphasizes the importance of community support and generosity to maintain the festival’s free admission policy, ensuring it remains accessible to all.
Event Ticket Information
For the upcoming spring fundraiser, tickets are reasonably priced at $30 if purchased in advance, and $35 at the door. Attendees can snag their tickets by visiting the official Michigan Jazz Festival website. It’s a small price to pay for an afternoon filled with jazzy rhythms and smooth grooves!
A Glimpse Ahead
Mark your calendars, because the main Michigan Jazz Festival will take place on Sunday, July 20, again at the Vistatech Center. This year’s milestone event is sure to be a grand celebration, but the spring fundraiser is the perfect teaser for what’s in store.
So, put on your dancing shoes, grab your friends and family, and head out to support the vibrant jazz scene in Michigan. The spring fundraiser promises to be a fantastic start to a summer filled with joyful music!
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Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Latin Jazz Band Aguanko at Michigan Jazz Fest Fundraiser
- Detroit Free Press: R&B on the River and Homegrown Jazz
- The Oakland Press: Summer Music Festivals in the Metro Area
- Local Spins: Michigan Music Festivals 2024
- Hometown Life: Concert Season at Hawk Theatre
- Wikipedia: Michigan Jazz Festival
- Google Search: Jazz Music
- Google Scholar: Jazz Music
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jazz
- Google News: Jazz Festivals
