The most notable sentiment about Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland is “wow, I wish it didn’t have to end.”  From the powerful performance of George Benson, to the dynamic riffs of Buddy Guy, the magnificent educational programs, the World Premiere of Crossing Bridges, and the sensational Dave Koz and Joe Sample, as well as the dozens of other events throughout Cleveland and Cuyahoga County, JazzFest 30 was phenomenal… and as usual, exhausting.

But, sometimes it’s just too good to be “done.”  And that is the case this year, for two reasons.  First, since we had to reschedule Dave Brubeck to June 6, it gave the staff an unusual opportunity to catch their breath in the middle of the festival.  Because this foundational pillar of Jazz is now performing in June, you can take your enthusiasm for everything else that Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland offers, and extend it for a month.  
 
Brubeck’s was pivotal in my understanding and coming to love Jazz.  I think everyone knows “Take 5” from the Time Out recording.  But the range of his work and longevity in Jazz that led him to the recent solo piano album, Indian Summer, are amazing and inspiring.

Secondly, as we have looked  back at 30 years in presenting Jazz, there have been several moments, songs, interviews and events that have stood out.  Each of us could share our list (Mine would include Bela Fleck and Regina Carter jamming a few years ago, Sekou Sundiata at Jazz Meets Hip Hop, the list goes on…).

Because there are folks who have a much longer history with JazzFest than I have – namely Cliffie Jones and Willard Jenkins --  we have decided to extend our 30th JazzFest in another way through a CD and DVD

If you want to check out some of the best moments from the past 30 years this CD/DVD set is astounding in its scope and breadth, and is available for a donation of $25 or more.

Brian Bethune, Ph.D.
Dean of Performing Arts
Cuyahoga Community College