There’s an old saying around 18th and Vine: "Jazz was born in New Orleans but it grew up in Kansas City."
This weekend, the entire community has the opportunity to celebrate that tune-ful legacy.
The Kansas City Jazz and Heritage Festival hits the first downbeat on Friday and swings all the way through Sunday.
Previously a one-day event in the fall, it will now cover three days and emphasize our town’s role in the national and international development of jazz…and music, period.
Cheptoo Kositany-Buckner, Executive Director of the American Jazz Museum, wants this weekend to be something that brings together all people from all backgrounds.
She believes Kansas City needs to have one of the greatest Jazz festivals in the world; to be a “must-perform” spot for musicians and a “must-hear” spot for fans.
From nationally-known acts like Brandy and Chick Corea to home-grown stars such as The McFadden Brothers, Bobby Watson and Oleta Adams, this will be a musical moment to remember.
And, it will cover the spectrum of musical tastes.
Prices start at $25 for the main stage, with ticket packages available covering parts or all of the weekend.
Early this Wednesday morning, musician, teacher, composer Eddie Moore played us into the middle of the week.
Mr. Moore says it is wonderful to be a jazz musician in Kansas City and know you are part of a legacy that will play on and on.
