Detroit, MI – Today, organizers of the Detroit Jazz Fest announced the festival theme and initial slate of performers for its 30th anniversary Labor Day Weekend (September 4 - 7). In celebration of three decades of presenting jazz, the Detroit Jazz Fest will honor key jazz families and Detroit's own significant history of players and composers. Sub-titled “Keepin' Up With the Joneses," it will center on the family dynasty of Thad, Elvin and Hank Jones through performances by brothers and families who not only stay connected to “the tradition," but to each other. Families represented so far include the Brubeck family, John & Bucky Pizzarelli and the Clayton Brothers. T.S. Monk will honor the musical legacy of his father, Thelonious Monk, in Monk on Monk. The venerable Hank Jones, recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 Grammy Awards, will appear on behalf of the Jones family.
“In this case, “keepin' up" means living up to the greatness of Hank, Elvin and Thad - these important musical giants, and their incredible sense of swing." says Detroit Jazz Festival executive director, Terri Pontremoli. “The festival is going to be a completely joyful family reunion."
Not all of the '09 artists will be “family oriented," however. Music fans will be treated to performances by Chick Corea (2008 Jazz Artist of the Year-JazzTimes Reader's Poll), Sheila Jordan, Christian McBride, and Wayne Shorter.
The complete lineup, full of family ties, interesting stories and even some surprises, will be unveiled at the Detroit International Jazz Festival press conference at the Guardian Building, Wednesday, April 29th at noon. In the meantime, the pre-festival series, “Another Great Day in Detroit" will present special events throughout the next several months.
In addition to being one of the world's largest free jazz festivals, The Detroit International Jazz Festival is a non-profit organization that promotes music education throughout the year. Supporters include Chase, Carhartt Clothing Company, the Kresge Foundation, Mack Avenue Records, the Joyce Foundation, DTE Energy Foundation, Michigan Council on Arts & Cultural Affairs, National Endowment for the Arts and Whole Foods. Its annual attendance of 750,000 contributes approximately $90M to the local economy. Individuals can make donations year-round. For more information visit detroitjazzfest.com.
