By Shane Goodman shane@dmcityview.com

Passion helps jazz series grow

Jazz in July celebrates 25 years

I first met Metro Arts Executive Director Tracy Levine three years ago. I was impressed by her passion and enthusiasm for the arts, most noticeably during our discussions of Jazz in July. And with more than 15,000 Des Moines area residents attending the concerts, she is not alone. A total of 28 bands will perform 22 free jazz concerts throughout this month. We are pleased to be a sponsor of the event and to continue to promote live music in Central Iowa.

This year marks a special anniversary for Jazz in July, as the series is now in its 25th year, and Levine says it gets better each time. And with total production costs of the series now exceeding $30,000, it has become a major production. Cityview editor Michael Swanger wrote this week’s cover story on the series. It is a subject that he — as a musician and writer — also has great passion for.

The concerts are now held in a variety of locations, from Greenwood Park, to Union Park Baptist Church, to the Salisbury House, to the Botanical Center to many other spots. Artists include the likes of Roxi Copland, Janey Hooper, Sam Salomone, the Soul Searchers and others.

Those who plan to attend the concerts are encouraged to get comfortable by bringing lawn chairs and blankets. And with admission free to all shows except the July 21 “Salsa in the Garden” picnic fundraiser, there just isn’t a good excuse to miss the series. For more information on Jazz in July, visit www.metroarts.org or call 280-3222.

Thanks for reading.

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