Written by Cole Mihalich. Photo by Madisyn Welborn.
Last week was long for Forsyth Park. Thousands of people have been sitting, standing, dancing and wandering across 30 acres of greenery. Why?
The Savannah Jazz Festival.
Since the eighties, Savannah Jazz Fest has worked tirelessly to “spread the gospel” of the genre. From hosting living performances to fostering education, Savannah Jazz has been an advocate for decades. This past week, the annual Savannah Jazz Festival took place in Forsyth Park, the heart of Savannah, with after-hour events happening around town. Most of the events and concerts are free, with only a select few with a ticket price.
Over a dozen groups, including Ranky Tanky, the Navy Band Southeast and the Savannah Jazz Orchestra took the stage. From professionals to Savannah Arts Academy students and even our very own SCAD Bee Sharps, the lineup brought diverse voices to jazz. Afro-Cuban, traditional big bands and even scat were featured at the fest. And as for the crowds? It’s estimated by Fox 28 Savannah that there were at least 40,000 attendees at this year’s festival.
Additionally, a screening of the acclaimed documentary “Miles Davis: Birth of Cool” was shown at Lucas Theater, followed by a discussion with the Director and Miles Davis Family.
Savannah Jazz also presents a unique opportunity to learn about jazz year-round. Last year, at the Savannah History Museum, the Savannah Jazz History and Hall of Fame Exhibit told “the rich story of Savannah’s jazz history that is as old and important as that of New Orleans.”
Didn’t get a chance to attend this year? The Savannah Jazz Festival will be back next year! So, look forward to grabbing food from one of the many attending food trucks and stands, bringing a blanket, friends and family and enjoying a night with Savannah Jazz.
To learn more about Savannah Jazz Festival, click here.
