DC’s ‘Jazz in the Garden’ summer concert series brings the soul to Sculpture Garden

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — If you have the summer blues, one jazz summer concert series might have the cure. Wrapping up one of D.C.’s beloved festivals, “ Jazz in the Garden ,” organizers are gearing up for its last three shows.

With melodies of Latin fusion, zydeco and more, the concert series takes place at Sculpture Garden, located on Constitution Avenue NW. The concert series kicked off on May 31, and since then has been hosting a concert every Friday night. The last show is on Aug. 9.

Tickets are offered through a lottery to give music enthusiasts a chance to attend. Organizers said the lottery takes place a week before each concert and is held from Monday at 10 a.m. to Friday at noon.

If you are selected, attendees will receive a notification on Monday and can register for up to four passes. Here is a list of who is performing over the next three Fridays:

July 26 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.| Brent Brickhead

Brent Birckhead, an award-winning saxophonist, will take the spotlight on July 26. Brickhead is known for his creative risks while upholding the legacy of woodwind artistry. The Baltimore native studied at Howard University and has performed with Lauryn Hill, Nas, Wale and more.

August 2 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. | Plena Libre

Celebrating the soul of Puerto Rico, Plena Libre will fill Sculpture Garden with the sounds of hard-hitting horns, drums and harmonies. The group’s roots are planted in Puerto Rico’s plena and bomba styles, with a twist of Afro-Caribbean traditions.

August 19 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.| Leigh Pilzer’s Seven Pointed Star

Marking the end of the “Jazz in the Garden” summer concert series, Leigh Pilzer, one of D.C.’s leading saxophonists, and her band will highlight the harmonies of straight-head swing with a modern rhythm.

The seven-piece ensemble features Kenny Rittenhouse playing the trumpet and Amy Shook rocking the bass. Sherrie Maricle will be a special guest on the drums.

For more information on the “Jazz in the Garden,” visit the National Gallery of Art website .

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