Few things are more all-American and diverse than jazz, yet it is more than history. The contributions and significance of jazz is recognized by all 50 states and 20 other countries. This year national Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) will be commemorated with the "Newburgh Jazz- a-thon". Produced by Ferry Godmother Productions as a fundraiser for the Newburgh Jazz Series, this celebration will be 8 hours of nonstop jazz. Held at the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry Landing on Sunday April 27 this event begins at noon and will end with a big band grand finale just after dusk around 9pm. The Newburgh Jazz-a-thon will be not only a fundraiser, but a celebration of jazz as both a historical and living American art form. All moneys raised at the Jazz-a–thon will go to support the Newburgh Jazz Series 2008, the free summer-long concerts on the Newburgh waterfront. Making an appearance at the concert will be Neil Alexander & Nail, the Howland Wolves and the big band finale with Jazz Pioneers. Also making a guest appearance is Newburgh's own Jamie Kay, strumming his guitar, in a jazzy-folky way. This year's featured visual artist is Richard Outlaw. His canvas expresses a work of jazz and pizzazz. This fundraiser to support the Newburgh Jazz Series is free and open to the public, but a donation is suggested. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to offer their support at the event as well. If you can not attend this event, but would like to support the Newburgh Jazz Series 2008, visit www.FerryGodmother.com and click on the "donate" (text link). For more details call 845 568-0198 or email donations@ferrygodmother.com.
In 2004 the U.S. Congress passed a resolution designating jazz as "a rare and valuable national treasure." The Smithsonian Institution supported in part by a special congressional appropriation, has designated April as "Jazz Appreciation Month" and describes jazz "as the most significant musical culture to emerge in the United States".
Many can attest to the power and importance of music and how its contributions to teaching and learning, but jazz is also about a freedom of expression, spontaneity and a sharing of emotion It is passion, performance, and pride.
The production of the Newburgh Jazz-A-thon event, provided by Ferry Godmother Productions, leaves no room for a sour note. A limited number of reserved VIP seats will be available for those who make a contribution of $250 or more. Adding to the family-friendly environment, everyone, including the youngest jazz enthusiasts will enjoy pizza. Ferry Godmother Productions is a production management and marketing company and is well-known in the jazz world. They lead the planning of this event, practically guaranteeing it to be a hit.
If you are interested in supporting live artists or event a business sponsorship opportunity, contact Ferry Godmother Productions 845 568-0198 or email ferrygodmother@ferrygodmother.com.