By Brett Callwood
The 22nd Annual City of Gardena Jazz Festival will take place on Sunday, August 24 at Rowley Park and, as ever, the lineup looks spectacular.
Artists performing on the day are Robert Glasper, Avery Sunshine, Arturo Sandoval, Durti-Ryce featuring Deron, Tatiana Tate, the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center Jazz Band, and the Inner-City Youth of Los Angeles Jazz Ensemble.
Stephany Santin is Director of Recreation and Human Services with the City of Gardena. “The City of Gardena is always proud and excited to showcase incredible jazz artists at such a low cost,” Santin told the GVN. “As our Founder and Chair (Steven Bradford) often says, ‘There are no headliners – every performer is truly outstanding.’”
While the music is clearly the primary focus of the event, there’s plenty of other delights for attendees to enjoy.
“Many attendees have described the festival as feeling like a high school reunion,” Santin said. “It’s a special opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled day in the City with delicious food, unique shopping, and, most importantly, a chance for friends and families to come together and share their love of music.”
For Santin, it’s the young artists that provide the greatest excitement.
“I look forward to everyone having a fantastic time at this event,” she says. “Personally, I especially enjoy seeing the young performers, such as the Fernando Pullum Band and ICYOLA. It’s inspiring to witness the talent and passion of our youth.”
Santin said that planning for the festival usually begins in January, in order to coordinate the many contracts and logistics.
“Things really ramp up in May,” she says. “This is truly a citywide effort—not just our department. Public Works prepares the park, the Police Department handles traffic and security plans, and Administrative Services reviews and processes dozens of invoices. Our department devotes countless hours to ensure a memorable experience for both our visitors and our community. I feel very fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated and hardworking team.”
The event takes place at Rowley Park, 13220 S. Van Ness Ave., Gardena on Sunday, August 24, Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. The City asks that you do not line up at the entrances prior to 8 a.m. All festival attendees, bags, and coolers will be screened prior to entrance into the festival. Clear bags are recommended. General admission is $30, a box seat is $75, and a reserved table seat is $100. Visit gardenajazzfestival.com for more information.
