The outdoor jazz festival brings family entertainment to Cedar Falls
Now in its sixth year, Jazz in Seerley will bring more outstanding free jazz to the Cedar Valley in a beautiful park setting, 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20.
Beginning at 4 p.m in the Seerley Park gazebo, the opening act will feature The Go Benesh Quartet, which artfully fuses funk, jazz, pop, and contemporary styles. Band leader and alto saxophonist Go Benesh grew up on a Cedar Rapids farm, discovered jazz, and today plays alto saxophone for UNI’s Lab Band One, studying under the mentorship of Drs. Chris Merz and Michael Conrad.
The event headliner, The NOLA Jazz Band, will start at 5 p.m.. Based in Des Moines, NOLA features New Orleans jazz, blues, and roots music with a fun and original take on many musical styles. Described as “gutsy and heartfelt,” the band has performed on stages across the country and are known for bringing a creative and playful energy to legacy tunes, while also incorporating modern music and pop culture.
“The musicians this year, once again, are extraordinary,” says Jazz in Seerley president and local saxophonist Simon Harding. “They will bring an energy to Seeley Park that’s uplifting and joyful. I’m excited for this year’s performances!”
Jazz in Seerley will also feature local food trucks Cottonwood Canyon, La Calle, and The Outside Scoop, as well as numerous artisan vendors. Importantly, the jazz event will inaugurate Seerley Park’s brand new public bathrooms and water fountain, financed by the City of Cedar Falls in conjunction with public and private donations.
“We are so happy to offer live jazz in such a beautiful, kid-friendly outdoor venue for families and Cedar Falls residents of all ages,” says Jazz in Seerley committee member Hannah Crisman. “Seerley park now has new bathrooms and a water fountain, in addition to the playground equipment that is accessible for kids of all abilities. Bring your lawn chair, grab a bite to eat from one of our local food trucks, and enjoy the evening with us.”
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or portable chairs.
For more details, go to https://www.facebook.com/jazzinseerley