(We) second that: the 2nd edition of #AnElegantEveningOfJazz provides a top-notch music experience and supports an additional Clayton County high school jazz program
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, the 2nd edition of #AnElegantEveningOfJazz takes place at Spivey Hall (on the campus of Clayton State University). Under the creative energy and leadership of Dr. Shenita Scott via Life With Shenita, the event provides a top-notch live music experience at one of the more highly regarded concert venues in the Metro-Atlanta area.
And yet, there's more to the event than just a concert (click HERE for our preview article).
During the VIP and general reception, the Mount Zion High School Jazz Ensemble provides the sounds and "music scenery" to the networking and social time for patrons. This provides a bridge to the actual concert.
Opening with a welcome from the event MC, Morris Baxter (the host of Morris in the Morning on Jazz 91.9 WCLK), a presentation is made to Mount Zion High School's Jazz Ensemble as Bronze Level Sponsors Dr. Keith and Mary Horton join Dr. Ralph Simpson (Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Service & Strategic Improvement for Clayton County Public Schools) to articulate how a portion of the proceeds from the event support the school's program. Followed by a set by Comedian Cornelius George, the audience receives a positive infusing of energy and excitement, setting the tone and stage for the artists' performance.
Vocalist Lori Williams' opening set evokes a wide range of emotion and energy synonymous with the art form, as she provides a sound start and foundation for all. Followed by the sophisticated sounds of Saxophonist Trey Daniels, the audience is left amazed and enthused leading up to the intermission.
For the second half of the concert, Pianist Gino Rosaria builds off the performance and momentum generated by his music peers. As a result, the concluding version of the Maze featuring (the recently transitioned) Frankie Beverly standard "Before I Let Go" features all three featured artists, along with a guest performance by Saxophonist Dee Lucas (who is one of the featured artists for the inaugural edition in 2023).
With added remarks by Bronze Level Sponsor Floyd Gantt (of Edward Jones Financial Services based in Fayetteville, GA), the concert concludes, leaving the audience in an enriching space and place. After the concert, the featured artists take time to speak with us and share their feedback on the experience on stage and with the audience (along with a few updates of their upcoming events):
To conclude the evening, an intimate after-party at the newly launched Champagne Problems (boutique bar) provides moments to celebrate and reflect on the event in looking at its growth and where it can go for 2025 (and beyond).
An outstanding concert experience accentuated by providing support for an area high school's jazz program.
A balanced experience for all in attendance along with prospects for continued growth.
We second that.
Notes: All photos and video are compiled by Creative Community Solutions (click HERE to watch our video playlist). For related arts/entertainment coverage, you may visit our website (click HERE).
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