Sunnyside Jazz Festival in September -- by the Half Moon Press

September, 2001 issue

Sunnyside Jazz Festival in September One of the Hudson Valley's most popular outdoor jazz festivals returns to Sunnyside, Washington Irving's historic home, in Tarrytown, on September 15 and 16, from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The Sunnyside Jazz Festival has developed a loyal following, and a reputation for world class performances, in a relaxed setting, with Jazz to suit every age and taste.

The two-day festival is situated on Sunnyside's rolling lawns, where the Hudson River provides a beautiful backdrop for a weekend of exciting jazz performances and workshops. The rain or shine event is a collaborative effort presented by Jazz Forum Arts and Historic Hudson Valley, and runs the gamut of R&B, Bebop, Latin Jazz, and Swing.

This year's featured performers include, Houston Person and Etta Jones, David "Fathead" Newman, of the Ray Charles Orchestra, Steve Kahn with the Caribbean Jazz Project, the Bob Mintzer Big Band's tribute to Count Basie, the Bronx Horns, hot Latin jazz from members of Tito Puente's band, and BeBop masters Lou "Sweet Lou" Donaldson performing with the Barry Harris Trio.

Pre-festival events each day include a Jazz History Workshop with Bob Arthurs of the Westchester Music Conservancy Jazz Ensemble, at 11 a.m., then at noon children are invited to "Jazz for Kids" created by David Leonhart to introduce children to the world of jazz in a fun interactive program. The festival concludes both days with performances by festival founder Mark Morganelli, and the Jazz Forum All Stars joined by special guests for a no-holds-barred jam session.

Tours of Washington Irving's historic home are offered both days from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., all included in the admission price. Food and beverages will be available for sale at the site, and the gift shop will be open throughout the festival. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs to spread out on the meadow. Reserved tickets are $20 for adults 18-64, $15 for Seniors 65+, $10 for children 5-17, and free for children under 5, members of Historic Hudson Valley enjoy half price admission. Savings of $5 for the purchase of a two-day pass.

Purchase tickets in advance by calling Jazz Forum Arts at (914) 631-1000 or on-line at wwwJazzforumarts.org, through Ticketmaster, or at Sunnyside the day of the event. The Sunnyside Jazz Festival will be held rain or shine.