The BIG BAND JAM! 2013

The 8th Annual BIG BAND JAM! was a resounding success. The Blues Alley Jazz Society produced over 60 acts, artists or events at 8 separate venues over 12 days. Highlights included performances by trumpeter Jon Faddis, guitarist Paco de Lucia and our featured ensemble the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra. There were also tributes to jazz legends Louis Armstrong, vocalist Ella Fitzgerald and pianist Dave Brubeck. Many of our partners and sponsors provided classes, clinics and workshops that were created in a jazz village erected on the National Mall.

Internationally renowned saxophonist Ernie Watts has just been announced as our featured artist and educator for the 9th Annual BIG BAND JAM!. Mr. Watts is a well regarded educator and session player who has toured and/or performed with artists as diverse as Buddy Rich, Frank Zappa and the Rolling Stones. His unique style and effervescent tone have lent considerable cache to many others and he will be our guest clinician on April 24th, 25th and 26th, 2013.

The dates of the 9th Annual BIG BAND JAM! will occur between April 19th-30th, 2013 with daily performances at Blues Alley, Sylvan Amphitheater, Strathmore Music Center, Old Post Office Pavilion and more. The dates on the National Mall have been reserved between April 24th-28th, 2013. Past dates have included “Collegiate Jazz Day” and next year will include “Vocal Jazz Day” along with our popular “Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Workshop” led by a renowned vocalist. If you wish to make a placeholder reservation or would like further information please contact ExecutiveDirector@BluesAlley.org or call (202) 544-3230 directly. If you plan to visit our Nation’s Capitol during “Jazz Appreciation Month” please plan to visit the 9th Annual BIG BAND JAM! in April of 2013!