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Free Live Jazz Series Offered In Dobbs Ferry

by Jes Siart

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – The Dobbs Ferry Summer Concert Series is in its 13th season, and Mark Morganelli couldn’t be happier.

“It’s really a community event,” said Morganelli, who founded and produces the series. “We want to spread the message of art and how it impacts our lives. It’s part of the fabric of our lives.”

The series is held every Wednesday through Aug. 22 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Waterfront Park and is free and open to everyone, said Morganelli, executive director of the Jazz Forum Art. The event is co-sponsored by the Village of Dobbs Ferry and the Jazz Forum Art.

Morganelli said the turnout this year, as in past years, has been impressive, with about 700 to 1,000 people attending each concert. The series is funded through a $10,000 grant from Dobbs Ferry, JP Morgan-Chase, N.Y. State Council of the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts and Green Mountain Energy Company.

Times have changed since he first started producing the series and finding talent to perform, Morganelli said.

“Back in the day it was CDs, press kits and LPs,” Morganelli said. “Now it’s all electronic.”

Morganelli said he also finds musicians to perform through his own personal performances as a trumpet and flugelhorn player.

The series will grow again next summer and the summer after, said Matt Arron, superintendent of the department of parks and recreation. Through grants from the state, county and personal donations, Waterfront park will get a new permanent stage with a shade covering, new walkways, lighting, bathrooms and a playground, Arron said. 

Free parking is available during the concerts at the Metro North train station. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts are held at Embassy Community Center, 60 Palisade St. Below is the schedule of performers:

  • July 11 – Paul Beaudry and Pathways
  • July 18 – Jazz Elite Band, directed by Ianthela Calhoun
  • July 25 – Hearts & Bones
  • Aug. 1 – John Burr Trio and Lynn Stein: Stephane Grappelli Tribute
  • Aug. 8 – Tyrha Lindsey & Friends and Young Vocal Winners Bianca and Carly
  • Aug. 15 – Chris Pasin Quintet
  • Aug. 22 – Finale! Jazz Forum Arts Vocal Jazz Winners

 

 

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