The JazzCity free concert series is a collaboration initiated with the Chicago Park District in 1997 that explores cultural connections in communities throughout Chicago.
 
The simple premise of the series is to connect people of all ethnicities and generations to the legacy (both musical and spiritual) of jazz in Chicago. We make it accessible by presenting it free of charge, and located right in the neighborhood.
 
For musicians, it's a great opportunity  to present new works. For the audiences, it's an opportunity to bring families and friends to see world class musicians in their own backyard.
 
JazzCity fosters greater awareness of the continuing legacy of Chicago's vibrant jazz community and an unparalleled opportunity for musicians to reach audiences where they live.
 
Media Sponsors for JazzCty include WDCB 90.9 FM Radio and WHPK 88.5 FM
 
Feburuary 15, 2012: Awakening to the Xperience: Tribute to Ken Chaney
Hamilton Park 513 W. 72nd St.
 
Ken Chaney’s much-admired Awakening band will include alums Ari Brown on saxophone, Pharez Whitted on trumpet, Josh Ramos on bass, Ernie Adams on drums and Miguel De la Cerna on piano. Special guest Dee Alexander who worked with Mr. Chaney for a decade at the Jazz Bulls will also pay homage to her longtime music partner.
 
Ken Chaney’s Xperience, a unique fusion of jazz and funk, was reunited at JazzCity in 2007, and will come together again to honor it’s leader with Robert Irving III on piano, Frank Russell on bass, Charles Heath on drums and original vocalists Ann and Susan Ward, Ben Farnandis and newest member Teniya Farnandis. Rumor has it that after the three sets a jam session may break out, so be prepared!
 
March 8, 2013 Big Band Big Dance
Loyola Park 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.
 
Got your dancing shoes ready? Come hear the NIU Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Ronald Carter, one of the best college big bands in the country!
 
April 12, 2013 Bebop Brass: Tribute to Lee Morgan
Tuley Park 501 E. 90th Pl.
 
Ken Chaney’s dream band featured a different line-up of Chicago’s top brass every year. This one features Pharez Whitted, Victor Garcia and Bobby Lewis on trumpets, Steve Berry, Adam Thornberg and Audrey Morrison on trombones, Xavier Breaker on drums, Marlene Rosenberg on bass and stepping into Mr. Chaney’s band leader role, pianist Miguel de la Cerna.
 
May 10, 2013 NextGenJazz in the Park
Sherman Park 1301 W. 52nd St.
 
Hear what the new generation has to play with New Frontline led by trombonist Kendall Moore. Featuring Christopher McBride on sax, Marquis Hill on trumpet, Michael King on piano, Junius Paul on bass and Marcus Evans on drums.
 
June 14, 2013 Jazz Cabaret: Frieda Lee
Columbus Park Refectory 5701 W. Jackson Blvd.
 
A Chicago mainstay for over 20 years, Frieda Lee’s swinging vocals moved and grooved countless audiences touring with Joe Williams and Kevin Mahogany and as primary vocalist for Jeff Lindberg’s Chicago Jazz Orchestra.
 
July 19 7PM – 9PM & July 20 1PM – 8PM Latin Jazz Festival: Celebrating Community Through Culture.
Humboldt Park Boathouse 1359 N. Sacramento
 
Expanded to TWO days to feature music, dance and art making in celebration of Latino traditions old and new. Enjoy music on Friday from 7PM- 9PM and more music, mask making, parades, bombaso, and activities for the whole family from 1PM-8PM Saturday.
 
October 11, 2013 Remembering Jodie Christian
West Pullman Park 401 W. 123rd St. Chicago
 
Jodie Christian was known far and wide as one of the few pianists who thrived across the entire spectrum of jazz styles. We’ve invited some close musical companions to celebrate him: pianist Miguel de la Cerna, saxophonist Juli Wood, trumpeter Brad Goode, bassist Dennis Carroll and drummer Charles Heath.
 
November 8, 2013 John Moulder: Soul and Spirit
Austin Town Hall Park 5610 W. Lake Street
 
How does jazz give voice to the human soul and spirit? Guitarist John Moulder explores the connection with a new composition that expresses transcendence and the quest for unity, higher consciousness and peace.
 
December 13, 2013 Cultural Crossroads: Miyumi Project Meets Great Black Music Ensemble
Garfield Park Conservatory 300 North Central Park Avenue
 
Prepare for a feast for both eyes and ears! Tatsu Aoki’s Miyumi Project has long incorporated Great Black Music Ensemble Director Mwata Bowden into its unique amalgam of traditional Japanese music and jazz. Bowden’s leadership of Great Black Music Ensemble has redefined the art of improvised composition in the context of swing. Come listen as two musical brothers unite to explore their musical and cultural connections.
 
All concerts are family friendly and free and start at 7PM