June Kicks off Vibrant Jazz Season in Massachusetts

Posted by Amaris Chen, guest blogger of Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

June, a month of colorful blossoms, gentle breezes and warm sunlight, long evenings and outdoor summer fun, also marks the start of a terrific season of jazz in Massachusetts.
If you enjoy the full-flavored and playful melodies of trumpet, bass, piano, saxophone, and guitar that make you dance to the music, kick off your summer with these four great jazz events across the Commonwealth.

June 7-8, 2019
Middlesex Jazz Fest
The 3rd annual Middlesex Jazz Fest at the Concord Visitor Center offers a great line-up of top local jazz bands. Free to the public, this year’s jazz fest runs from 1 – 6 p.m. and features Don Olson and the Latin Bash!, the Compac Big Band, the Love Dogs, Joe Magnarelli and Wayne Bergeron. The Acton-Boxboro High School Jazz Band and the Concord Middle School Jazz Ensemble also perform. On Friday night, June 7, check out Jazz Night Out at the Trail’s End Café.
Location: Concord Center – 58 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742
Admission: Free

June 14-15, 2019
Django in June
Gypsy Jazz, developed by the great Belgian born Romani-French guitarist Django Reinhardt, has a world-wide following, and each year the Django in June event in Northampton pays special tribute to this unique music. This year’s performers include Swing of France featuring Daniel Givone and the Romane–Daniel John Martin Quartet, performing at the Academy of Music Theatre on June 14. Then on June 15, performers Christine Tassan et les Imposteurs, Noe Reinhardt, Costel Nitescu and Samy Daussat take the stage.
Location: Academy of Music Theater – 274 Main Street Northampton, MA
Admission: $15- $35

June 14 – June 16, 2019
8th Annual Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend
The 8th Annual Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend, located in the beautiful western Massachusetts town of Lee, presents Al Fresco, a jazz ensemble featuring keyboard, saxophones and flute, bass and drums. , and food vendors. You can find professional singers like Samirah Evans and Wanda Houston on June 14. The famous soloist on both tenor saxophone, Ken Peplowski, and the fast-rising star among the world’s greatest jazz guitarists Diego Figueiredo is going to perform on June 15. On the last day of this musical feast, June 16, a Jazz Brunch at Starving Artist Cafe and Creperie with Rich Vinette Quintet is waiting for you to stop by.
Location: Lee Congregational Church
Admission: Various prices

June 15, 2019
New Bedford JazzFest
On Saturday, June 15, the jazz scene shifts to Southeast Massachusetts, as the New Bedford Jazzfest takes place on Pier 3 in historic downtown New Bedford. You can expect local musicians and singers showcasing their artistry, ranging from Big Band and Latin Jazz to Bebop and New Orleans. In addition, you can enjoy the flavors of New Bedford as local restaurants and breweries showcase their favorite recipes and drinks.
Location: Pier 3, New Bedford
Admission: $25.00, kids 15 and under free with adult