Jazz festival to return to grounds of JW Marriott
What better way to herald the fall weather than with the cool sounds of jazz? The outdoor Las Vegas Jazz Festival is planned for Sept. 19-21 on the grounds of the JW Marriott.
Michael Gaughan Jr., general manager of the property at 221 N. Rampart Blvd., said fall is the perfect time in Las Vegas to host such an outdoor event.
“Jazz festival weekend is always a fun atmosphere, full of excitement and energy,” he said.
The JW Marriott first hosted the festival in September 2012. That year saw approximately 1,800 guests, which grew to 2,200 the following year. For 2014, roughly 2,800 are expected.
Saxophonist Eric Darius is slated to open the festival Sept. 19. Also scheduled that day are Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly, and Cameo. Doors are set to open at 3:30 p.m.
Doors are set to open at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 20. The schedule is set to feature Jazz in Pink, with Gail Jhonson, Karen Briggs and special guest Jeanette Harris, as well as Keith Sweat, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and Eric Benet, with each pulling material from his own extensive songbook. Bringing a little soul to the mix will be jazz saxophonist Euge Groove, known for his power-packed performances featuring R&B, jazz and gospel.
Doors are set to open at 11 a.m. Sept. 21. That day will showcase solo sets from vocalists Anthony Hamilton, Ledisi, Will Downing and Leela James. Contemporary jazz artist Brian Culbertson is slated to perform instrumentals and funk grooves. Rising saxophone stars Elan Trotman and Jessy J have signed on to share the stage with singer Selina Albright for a run through of their radio singles and fan favorites.
The event is promoted and produced by BTW Concerts. What comes to mind for Heath McCarter of BTW Concerts when he thinks of Las Vegas?
“Luxury, enjoyment and adults having a good time,” he said. “We bring the upscale crowd out for people who want to enjoy great music and good times and camaraderie with others.”
He said the performers are similarly swayed by the city’s allure and often give it preference when booking their gigs.
Gaughan said events such as the festival help remove the perception that the fun of Las Vegas ends at the Strip and lets people know there are numerous venues in the outer areas.
This is the third year BTW Concerts has produced the event in Las Vegas.
“The first year we did it, it was devoted to all smooth jazz, and we found out a lot of people like a variety,” McCarter said. “So, we added the R&B element to it last year, and we want to make sure that people who attend the festivals get their most value for their concert dollars, so we try to overload the festival with great talent and Grammy-Award winning artists.”
Tickets start at $65 for a single-day ticket and range up to $975 for a three-day seat in the pit. For tickets, visit lvjazzfestival.com or call 602-244-8444.
Contact Summerlin Area View reporter Jan Hogan at jhogan@viewnews.com or 702-387-2949.
