Are you a hip cat ready to swing into autumn with some righteous riffs, but don’t want to go on a long road trip to catch the groove? Then tune your ears to the cat’s pajamas of local jazz and check out the Al Sears Music Festival, where the lineup will be jammin’ from Friday, September 19, through Sunday, September 21.
Honoring the legacy of the talented and influential musician Al Sears (1910-1990) in his hometown of Macomb, the festival invites jazz, R&B and American songbook fans to gather and celebrate his remarkable talent. The three-day event kicks off with the Western Illinois University Jazz Studio Orchestra at The American Legion Post 6 on Friday, September 6, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Then, on Saturday, September 20, from 7-9 p.m., brace yourself for acclaimed artist Bryan Anthony, who will deliver a rich, butter- smooth sound to your ears as he presents an evening of classic songs made famous by magnetic storytellers of the industry past, present and future: Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Sammy Davis Jr., with pieces written by Gershwin, Vernon Duke and others. This event will be held at the Western Illinois Museum’s newly renovated Our Front Porch space.
Also at the Western Illinois Museum, the weekend will close with WIU alumnus Yoseph Henry leading an afternoon of music and conversation on Sunday, September 21, at 2 p.m. An acclaimed jazz, R&B and gospel singer, Henry will highlight the lasting legacy Sears left on the jazz genre, whether through performing with Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton or producing records and shaping the music industry as an executive with ABC Paramount. Throughout the weekend, the Western Illinois Museum will showcase photographs, recordings and artifacts related to his work.
So if you think you’re the bee’s knees and know how to groove when the going gets loud, then swing on down, Daddy! All are welcome to attend.
