Jazz it up: Annual Huntsville music series lineup released

HUNTSVILLE – Kenny Anderson describes the annual jazz music series in Big Spring Park East a melting pot of sorts – there’s something for everyone.

The lineup for Jazz in the Park was released Friday with top artists from around the country scheduled to perform every Sunday in September at Big Spring Park East, though this year’s series will feature back-to-back performances Sept. 1 and 2, which is also Labor Day.

The festival is free to attend.

“Jazz in the Park is crucial for fostering a spirit of inclusivity in our community while adding an element of musical and cultural diversity to Huntsville’s growing music scene,” said Anderson, director of Huntsville’s Office Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. “It brings people together from all backgrounds to enjoy world-class jazz, enriches our cultural landscape and showcases the unity that music can create.”

Mayor Tommy Battle called Jazz in the Park one of the city’s signature events, held in one of the city’s signature parks. He also credited the annual series for introducing music lovers to new genres and artists they may not have been exposed to otherwise.

“The caliber of talent at this year’s Jazz in the Park is outstanding, bringing some of the best jazz musicians to Huntsville,” Battle said. “The artist roster always offers something for everyone, no matter your musical tastes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.”

This year’s festival will again coincide with Huntsville Music Month, held each September.

Music Officer Matt Mandrella said Jazz in the Park is an essential element to Huntsville’s music ecosystem because it attracts world-class artists who also spend time in local classrooms, educating students on everything from music and production to the music business.

“The classroom workshop component of Jazz in the Park is significant because it inspires the next generation of musicians,” Mandrella said. “We hope these young talents will stay in Huntsville, get involved with our music scene, and in turn, inspire future generations, creating a lasting legacy of musical excellence in our community.”

Schedule of performers:

Sept. 1

• 5 p.m. – Joe Rozum
• 6 p.m. – Jeff Bradshaw 
• 7:30 p.m. – Jakiem Joyner 

Sept. 2

• 5 p.m. – Cameron Sankey
• 6 p.m. – Dalen Minnifield
• 7:30 p.m. – Althea Renee 

Sept. 8

• 5 p.m. – N’General
• 6 p.m. – Sherry Reeves 
• 7:30 p.m. – BK Jackson  

Sept. 15

• 5 p.m. – Nina Marie
• 6 p.m. – Tony & The Kings
• 7:30 p.m. – JJ Sansaverino 

Sept. 22

• 5 p.m. – Noelette Leader
• 6 p.m. – Dominque Hammond
• 7:30 p.m. – Marcus Anderson