Rolling Meadows hosts Jazz in the Meadows
The Rolling Meadows High School Music Boosters will present the 32nd annual Jazz in the Meadows Jazz Festival Saturday, Feb. 25.
More than 100 jazz bands and combos representing 60 schools from five states will be participating in what is one of the largest and most highly regarded jazz gatherings in the Midwest. Beyond the actual participants, Jazz in the Meadows has become an event for local jazz enthusiasts as well.
The general public is welcome to attend and take in performances throughout the day and evening. Guests will have the opportunity to listen to some of the top jazz bands and combos from Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa and Missouri.
Many of the jazz bands and combos participate in the competitive portion of the event in an effort to achieve top honors in their specific categories and earn the opportunity to participate in the Grand Finale Concert at the end of the day.
A Noontime Concert features The Northern Illinois University Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Reggie Thomas.
In addition to the highest scoring bands, the Grand Finale Concert will include a performance by special guest artist Jeff Coffin and the Mu'tet. Coffin is a globally recognized musician, composer, educator and author. He is a member of Dave Matthews Band, a three-time Grammy winner, and 14-year former member of Bela Fleck & the Flecktones.
The 32nd Annual Jazz in the Meadows will kick off at 8 a.m. with performances every half-hour throughout the day in various locations in the school. The Noontime Concert will start at noon. The Grand Finale Concert is scheduled to begin at approximately 5 p.m.
Tickets are available at the door and come in several package options. A $15 adult ticket allows access to all performances throughout the day, including the Grand Finale Concert.
Senior citizens and students can enjoy the all-access pass for just $10. A family of up to four can purchase a full-day pass for $35. Tickets for only the Grand Finale Concert are $10 for adults; $7 for students and seniors.
Breakfast, lunch and snack items will be available throughout the day at several locations throughout the building. There is also a Jam Session all day in the cafeteria area.
There are numerous opportunities for families and alumni to volunteer to help with running the festival or for placing ads in the program book, or for being sponsors.
For information about Jazz in the Meadows, call (847) 718-5752 or visit www.rmhsmusicboosters.com.
• Submit 'Your News' at www.dailyherald.com/share.