Opening Night! Scottsdale Jazz Festival – The Legacy of Russell “Big Chief” Moore Presented by Doc Jones and Jacob Moore
This April, the rhythm and soul of jazz will come alive as Scottsdale, Arizona, celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month with a spectacular lineup of events. Officially recognized by the Smithsonian National Museum, Jazz Appreciation Month honors jazz music’s rich history and cultural impact. Scottsdale’s festivities promise an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Opening Night! Scottsdale Jazz Festival – The Legacy of Russell “Big Chief” Moore
The festival events, sponsored by the City of Scottsdale, will begin on Thursday, April 24, at 6:00 PM with a special presentation at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West in the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Theater/Auditorium. This exclusive evening will celebrate the legacy of Russell “Big Chief” Moore. Moore, a Pima tribe member, grew up on the Gila River Indian community lands before moving to Chicago and then Los Angeles where he learned to play various instruments, eventually settling on trombone. Throughout his career, Moore worked with an array of artists including Frank Sinatra, Lionel Hampton, Alberta Hunter and Pee Wee Russell as well as recording under his own name. He is best remembered for his work as a member of Louis Armstrong’s band.
“Jazz isn’t just music; it’s a cultural expression, a way of storytelling, and a celebration of diversity,” said William Doc Jones, Founder of the International Jazz Day AZ Foundation.
Through an educational session followed by a short concert by Doc Jones and Friends, attendees will gain insight into his extraordinary journey and the broader influence of Native American contributions to jazz. This session will be preceded by a light reception in the Christine and Ted Mollring Sculpture Garden.
Program Info:
Thursday, April 24 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
$10 for general tickets
$8 for Museum members (please log-in to obtain your tickets)
A Weekend of Musical Brilliance
The grand finale of the Scottsdale Jazz Festival celebrations takes place at the Scottsdale Civic Center on Saturday, April 26. The festival promises to be a dynamic showcase of talent featuring a stellar lineup of acclaimed artists, including Rick Braun and Richard Elliot. From smooth melodies to powerful rhythms, the event will highlight the diverse styles and emotional depth that make jazz an enduring art form.
Visitors can enjoy a day of unparalleled performances in the scenic surroundings of the Civic Center. The festival welcomes music lovers of all ages and offers a family-friendly environment where the legacy of jazz can be celebrated together. “We’re excited to unite the community and honour the timeless impact of jazz with these remarkable events,” said William Doc Jones.
For more information on these or other Scottsdale Jazz Festival events, visit www.scottsdalejazzfest.org.
This event is sponsored by the City of Scottsdale
Hey partner! Keep an eye on our social media for up-to-date news:
Programs and times are subject to change.