Imagine a uniquely shaped red rock formation situated on a plateau with the river rushing by and you have just found paradise. Sedona comes into its own in September when they welcome back the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks Festival. The 2009 dates are September 22-27. The tradition of this festival began in 1981 when the first jazz musicians took to the stage, and the event has grown in popularity ever since. Jazz is considered an art form, and no one does it better than Sedona’s Jazz on the Rocks Festival. It all comes together when you put fantastic music in a stunning city like Sedona.
For five days in September, the best jazz musicians in the world come to Sedona. Legends and newcomers burst onto the landscape, enriching lives with their performances. The organization is non-profit, with part of the profits going to send aspiring jazz talent to music schools. You can attend free concerts, so grab a chair and spend the day.
The Sedona Jazz on the Rocks continues to grow and each year we see more events added to the program. Some of last year’s favorites included the movies and a larger program of free concerts. Jazz lovers were able to enjoy the wonderful beauty of Sedona on the outdoor stage. The addition of dinner and dancing to the great sound of the festival was a huge success.
We all hope that the winemakers’ dinner that was a feature of the 2008 festival will return. This event was as delicious as it was entertaining. However, everyone is looking forward to the all-day festival. Last year’s performers included the Bobby Hutcherson Quartet, B3’s Tony Monaco, Giacomo Gates and the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks Youth Band. They were just some of the artists who moved us on stage. We will undoubtedly see the same high caliber jazz musicians in 2009.
The Radisson Poco Diablo Resort is hosting the festivities as usual. Some of the free concerts have taken place in Tlaquepaque in the past and we should see a return to this unique shopping plaza. The atmosphere that is the essence of Tlaquepaque blends beautifully with the resounding notes of jazz that fill the air. Dine in the excellent restaurants and take home the perfect souvenir of your delightful visit to Sedona’s Jazz on the Rocks Festival.
You can expect to find music clinics at school once again. These clinics have proven to be extremely popular with everyone who attends the festival. Clinics will span multiple days, so be sure to check the schedule so you don’t miss out. The free concerts will follow the clinics as they have in the past.
Sedona Jazz on the Rocks has awarded fourteen scholarships totaling approximately $38,000 to Arizona’s most promising new jazz artists. Its commitment to promoting music and youth careers has been recognized since its inception.
Friendly hospitality, red rock spiers beckoning you to relax, and the wonderful sounds of Sedona Jazz at the Rocks Festival await you in Sedona. Come join the fun at this year’s festival. For more information you can call (928) 282-1985.
