Jazz at Sunset

If it's Friday, it's Jazz at Sunset

Jazz at Sunset is one of Central Massachusetts' best ideas for kicking off your weekend! For six weeks each summer, the EcoTarium is transformed into a concert venue unlike any other. Jazz enthusiasts, young families, retirees and couples sharing a romantic picnic all rave about the unique and relaxing experience of the Jazz at Sunset series produced by the EcoTarium and WICN Public Radio.

2008 Schedule and Information

Concerts are on Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the museum's Sundial Plaza. In case of rain or the threat of rain, concerts are held in the tent pavilion.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

June 13: Pine Leaf Boys - The Grammy-nominated Pine Leaf Boys have made a name for themselves by presenting their own inimitable brand of traditional Cajun and Creole music with youthful exuberance. The variety and energy they release evolves through their shows, bringing multi-faceted angles to Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco. Steeped in music since children and hailing from farms and towns in Cajun country, the Pine Leaf Boys have preserved the traditional Cajun sound, while allowing it to breathe and stretch with those who play it. They present their music in multiple configurations such a twin fiddle, duo accordion/fiddle, bass, drum, and foot-stomping jures. Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas tour has been cancelled.
June 20: Houston Person - As eclectic as he is talented, global performer Person has recorded everything from disco and gospel to pop and R&B, in addition to his trademark, soulful hard bop. After years as producer and house tenor for High Note Records and touring with the late Etta Jones, Person is getting renewed recognition as a master of popular songs played in a relaxed, highly accessible style.
Listen to a sample
June 27: Kendrick Oliver and the New Life Jazz Orchestra - The Boston-based group of 19 young players and vocalists combines Basie-style swing and foot-stomping, head-bobbing arrangements with high-powered rhythms, an unrestrained brass section, elegant vocals and a talented assortment of spectacular soloists to produce its infectious sound and nothing less than a swinging, stomping experience!
Listen to a sample
July 11: Janiva Magness - Los Angeles-based Janiva Magness is one of today's most talented and recognized blues and roots vocalists. Singer Magazine writes, "Her voice is sultry, smoky and strong with jazz, blues, and soul textures enveloping it." With outstanding vocals, style and poise, Magness is best known for her sauciness and the bold, brazen beauty of her recordings and performances.
Listen to a sample
July 18: Worcester Jazz Orchestra - Hot jazz. Cool tunes. Sizzling performances. The Worcester Jazz Orchestra is celebrating over 12 years of critically-acclaimed Big Band music. This 18-piece orchestra highlights music from all your favorites, including Stan Kenton, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson and others!
July 25: Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers - Sultry chanteuse Lavay Smith evokes a sensuous era of glamorous Jazz divas with her big, bluesy voice, exciting stage personality, and glamorous approach. Whether singing her own compositions or drawing on a large repertoire of classics, Lavay and her all-star 8-piece band, consisting of four horns, piano, bass and drums, bake up an instant recipe for good times.
Listen to a sample

Evening Snacks

As always, EcoTarium offers an array of delicious light dinners, snacks and beverages at all Jazz at Sunset concerts, catered by Apple Spice Junction. Beer and wine are available by the glass. Guests are welcome to pack a picnic; however, state law prohibits guests from bringing alcoholic beverages on site.

No Pets Policy

Pets are prohibited at the EcoTarium. EcoTarium has many animals on exhibit and also living on the museum grounds. For their safety, we ask that you please leave your pets at home.

Tickets

Advance tickets and tables are sold by date and are available until 4 p.m. the day before the show. Order by phone at (508) 929-2703.

No refunds. Tickets are also available at the door on the night of the show.
Chairs are not provided, please bring your own chairs!
Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

$18 per person (includes museum admission)
$15 per EcoTarium and WICN member
Free for children 12 and under

Support

Major support provided by:

Additional support for the series is provided by The Beechwood Hotel and Harlequin Restaurant; Ameriprise Financial; Bicycle Alley; Bollus Lynch; Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC; William F. Lynch Co., Inc.; Mercier Electric Company, Inc., Mirick O'Connell and M. Steinert & Sons.

Media support for the series is provided by: