Jazz event takes center stage in Scottsdale

The Molina Fine Jewelers Scottsdale Jazz Festival Blues & Brews, presented by Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale, returns April 27 to the Scottsdale Civic Center in Old Town, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd. This year the event takes place at the Civic Center’s new East Bowl, its largest amphitheater.

This year’s headline act is Grammy award-winning contemporary Jazz/R&B star Norman Brown. Other artists include New Orleans jazz saxophonist Donald Harrison, vocalist Nayo Jones, Carlos Rivas & Mexsal, Arizona-based jazz great Neaman Lyles, Kiara Jayne, Kings of Soul and more.

In addition to a array of sounds and sights, food showcasing the flavors of New Orleans will be on hand.

This year, the Molina Fine Jewelers Scottsdale Jazz Festival Blues & Brews is partnering with the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships to add an extra level of polo style luxury and excitement to the jazz event, as well as helping introduce new elements to the event just as it has to for years with the Scottsdale Polo Party.

New this year is the Brew Garden Beer Tasting featuring a selection of craft beers in the signature beer garden. A beer cicerone (someone who specializes in the service and knowledge of beer) will be on hand to guide those attending and answer any questions. Beer tasting tickets are sold separately and do not include entry into the event. Prices, if purchased in advance, are $16.50 for five beer tastings and $33 for ten beer tastings.

There are a variety of ticketing options and price levels. General admission is $35 before March 1, $45 after March 1 and $55 at the door. Reserved table seating, including some seating on the stage itself, is also available from $775 to $3,050 per table. All access passes are also available for $555 if purchased before March 1. For a complete list of options, visit ScottsdaleJazzFest.org.

Gates to the event open at 3 p.m. with the acts beginning at 4 p.m. and is scheduled to conclude at 11 p.m.

“Scottsdale Jazz festival brings amazing artists jamming at the new East Bowl, which seats nearly 2,800 fans,” said Scottsdale Mayor David D. Ortega. “The cool lawn, savory food, and every style of cool jazz make the newest venue in Arizona special.”

Proceeds from the festival benefit the International Jazz Day AZ Foundation, which funds music programs for at-risk youth such as Next Student Academy for the Arts, Molina’s School of Jazz, and the Doc Jones’ summer music program.

Tickets are on sale at ScottsdaleJazzFest.org.