Great Jazz on the Great Hill

 

Bring a picnic blanket, snacks, and your dancing shoes for this fun, free event!

 

Cost: FREE EVENT

 

Saturday, August 9, 3:30 PM–7:00 PM

Great Hill in Central Park

(Enter the Park at 106th Street and Central Park West.)

 

 

Host

Lezlie Harrison is a personal renaissance—ever-evolving, ever-giving. As a vocalist, her vulnerable yet bold artistry uplifts and heals through jazz, blues, gospel, soul, and beyond. A beloved WBGO host, she champions America's classical music. Co-founder of The Jazz Gallery, Harrison’s global presence extends to stage and screen. Rooted in dignity and grace, her journey reflects deep legacy, vibrant expression, and unmistakable soul.

 

Performer

 

#Josh Evans

Trumpeter Josh Evans, born in Hartford, Connecticut, is a fantastic younger player—a straight-ahead trumpeter with a soulful style and melodic lines. He was inspired by Roy Eldridge and Dizzy Gillespie at age 10. Mentored by Jackie McLean, Evans has performed at the Blue Note and Iridium, and toured internationally with Rashied Ali. A former member of the Winard Harper Sextet, Evans released his debut album Portrait in 2011 and has performed with legends like Benny Golson, Cedar Walton, and Gregory Porter.

 

#Wallace Roney Jr.

—son of jazz greats Wallace Roney Sr. and Geri Allen—is a notable trumpeter in the New York jazz scene and beyond, both as a band leader and member of the bands of various jazz luminaries. He was drawn to the trumpet early, inspired by legends like Miles Davis and Lee Morgan. Gifted his first horn at age 10, he soon performed with icons such as Chick Corea and Ornette Coleman. A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory, Roney Jr. now shines on global stages as a leading voice in today’s jazz scene.

 

#George Gee Swing Orchestra

A native New Yorker, George Gee fell in love with jazz as a teen, inspired by big band legends like Count Basie and Duke Ellington. At Carnegie Mellon University, he launched a hit jazz radio show and formed a 17-piece band after interviewing Basie. Returning to NYC in 2000, Gee became a swing scene staple, leading his band at Swing 46 Jazz & Supper Club—still a cornerstone of the City’s big band revival. He is a favorite band for the swing dance community in NYC and beyond!

 

Jazzmobile and the Central Park Conservancy present Great Jazz on the Great Hill! Enjoy an incredible lineup of world-renowned jazz performers while lounging or swing dancing in the Park. All ages are welcome.

https://www.centralparknyc.org/activities/events/great-jazz-on-the-great-hill 

 

 

*Great Jazz on the Great Hill 2024

https://www.nyculturebeat.com/?mid=Music2&document_srl=4128219