The upcoming Ballard Jazz Festival features an extensive lineup of performances by local, national and international artists and runs from April 25 to 28 in different venues.
The main stage concert at Mars Hill Church, 1401 N.W. Leary Way. On April 28, 7:30 p.m. features The Moutin Reunion Quartet with Francis Moutin on upright bass, Tigran Hamasyan on piano, Rick Margitza on saxophones and Louis Moutin on drums. The band is from Paris, France.
Also on the bill is The Carl Allen Trio of Brooklyn, New York. Allen will be on drums with Rodney Whitaker, bass and George Colligan, piano. Joining them that night will be the Ballard Festival Youth Big Band lead by Jim Sisko. Ballard high school musicians will join students from other area high schools on stage.
Two night of drumming on April 25 and 26 will present audiences with the percussion work of Michael Shrieve, John Bishop and Gregg Keplinger on Wednesday. Thursday's lineup is Jason McGerr, Matt Cameron, Mike Peterson and Matt Jorgensen. The drumming shows are at the Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Avenue at 8 p.m.
Friday, April 27 is the Ballard Avenue Jazz Walk starting at 9 p.m. The musicians include: Moutin Reunion Quartet; Dan Balmer; Upper Left Trio; Buddy Catlett Trio; Richard Cole Group; Vic Juris and Corey Christensen; Dawn Clement; Gail Pettis; Jeff Baker/Bill Anschell Trio; Matt Jorgensen + 451; Brent Jensen; Ben Thomas; John Bishop Group and high school groups.
The Jazz Walk venues include: Tractor Tavern; OKOK Gallery; Bad Alberts; Portalis; Bop Street Records; Conor Byrne; Lock and Keel; Collective; New York Fashion Academy; DiVino; and an all ages concert at Mars Hill (7:30 p.m.).
Saturday, April 28 has Clinics scheduled at Mars Hill beginning at 3 p.m.. The session leaders are: Carl Allen and Rodney Whitaker (rhythm sections); Rick Margitza (saxophones); Jeff Baker (vocals); George Colligan (piano masterclass); and Vic Juris and Corey Christensen (guitar summit). There will be afternoon performances by high school combos from 4:30-7 p.m.
Ticket prices are $15 to $25. Complete Festival passes are $35, Concert and Clinics only $25. Jazz Walk only is $15. They are available at http://www.ballardjazzfestival.com or by calling 219-3649.
