After being canceled last year, Chandler’s Jazz Festival will return next month. But it will look different.
Rather than have people gather at Chandler Park to watch local and national acts on the main stage, they can stroll downtown and catch duos and trios playing live music outdoors.
“We’re just looking for trying to get back to providing something for the community, to having an outlet for them to come out and do some small interactions with their family members or just the city in general,” said Hermelinda Llamas, special events coordinator. “Hopefully, we can put a smile on a few faces.”
Chandler’s Jazz Festival, which started in 2000, will be held April 8-10. Musicians will perform at four open areas throughout Chandler’s Historic Square, including Crust, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West, Saba’s Western Wear and Sibley’s West. The nearby Vision Gallery will also feature live music.
Performances will take place 5 to 8 p.m. on April 8 and 9, and 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on April 10.
Performers include Mike Ozuna Trio, Pete Pancrazi and Todd Johnson, Beth Lederman & Jazz Con Alma, WildeP'lay, Trio Maxo, The Gaines Brothers, Charlie Smith and the Claudia Bloom Trio. The full entertainment schedule is at chandleraz.gov/special-events.
Starting April 1, in recognition of Jazz Appreciation Month, the Chandler Center for the Arts is featuring virtual performances, some free and some require ticket purchases. The Downtown Chandler Farmers Market will feature jazz performers on April 3, 10, 17 and 24.
