World-class jazz music will take the stage for three days in Northeast Pennsylvania. From August 3-5, the Scranton Jazz Festival will bring well-renowned musicians to the historic Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel in Scranton, just a short drive from Luzerne County. Here are five fun facts about the Scranton Jazz Festival:
1.) Rich in sound, rich in history –Jazz has long had a home in Northeast PA. From the 1930’s when jazz legends Tommy Dorsey and Jimmy Dorsey regularly performed with the Scranton Sirens Jazz Band to 1951 when the Cavalcade of Dixieland Jazz brought 8 jazz bands together in Downtown Wilkes-Barre to become the country’s first Jazz Festival, this area has a proud place in the history of jazz music.
2.) Big names & big bands – Musicians from around the world travel to Northeastern Pennsylvania to share their music. From Special EFX All-Stars on Friday night to the Hendrik Meurkens Samba Jazz Quartet on Sunday, festival attendees can expect to hear a range jazz music from world-class artists.
3.) Yankees connection – Among the many talented musicians who will perform before the crowds, is former New York Yankees great, Bernie Williams. A center fielder, Williams played with the Yankees from 1991 through 2006. After his retirement from baseball, the classically trained guitarist stepped up his musical career, even receiving a nomination for a Latin Grammy.
4.) Rain or shine – With the main stage under the cover of the historic station’s “train shed”, rain won’t stop the music showcase (although precautions will be taken in the event of lightening). Extensive lighting and quality sound equipment transform the outdoor space into an 800 seat concert venue.
5.) Eat, drink & enjoy- A variety of food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout all three days of the festival. So grab a bite to eat, sit back and enjoy the music!
You can find your fun and get your tickets to the Scranton Jazz Festival here.