There’s nothing like hot jazz to heat up a cool winter evening. Each February since 1980, the North Carolina Jazz Festival has brought world-class jazz musicians to Wilmington. Check it out Feb. 2-4.
Fifteen traditional jazz artists will perform in an intimate cabaret-style setting at the Hilton Wilmington Riverside’s ballroom. Now in its 32nd year, the 2012 North Carolina Jazz Festival kicks off on Thursday night with a concert featuring local piano man Grenoldo Frazier, along with a “beauty and the bass” performance by vocalist Melva Houston and bassist Herman Burney.
Melva Houston
A magical evening continues with two sets of rousing classic jazz. Friday and Saturday night sets (7:30 p.m. until midnight) will feature celebrated jazz musicians, including: Harry Allen (saxophone), Herman Burney (bass), John Cocuzzi (vibes/piano), Adrian Cunningham (clarinet, alto & tenor sax, flute), Kevin Dorn (drums), Nicki Parrott (bass, vocals); Bucky Pizzarelli (guitar master); Ed Polcer (trumpet/cornet); Chuck Redd (vibes/drums); and Bria Skonberg (trumpet, vocals).
John Cocuzzi
Adrian Cunningham
Bucky Pizzarelli
Chuck Redd
This year’s newcomers to the N.C. Jazz Festival are pianist John Royen, accordionist Patrick Harison, and trombonist Dion Tucker, who plays with Harry Connick Jr.’s band, as well as the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. A Patron’s Brunch on Saturday will feature the All-Star musicians and a jam session.
One of the oldest traditional jazz festivals in the country, this festival often sells out; advance reservations are recommended. For tickets and details about the N.C. Jazz Festival, call 910-793-1111 or visit www.ncjazzfestival.com. Individual concert ticket prices vary: Thursday ($35 per person); Friday and Saturday ($50 general admission; $25 military rate, each night).
