Are you ready to let the New Orleans-style good times roll? Mainstreet Anniston and Cheaha Creative Arts are bringing the Big Easy spirit to downtown Anniston, Alabama with the 2024 Jazz and Art Festival! This toe-tapping, brush-stroking event will paint the town with rhythm and color on Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12, 2024. The festival will transform the Anniston City Market at 126 W. 11th St. into a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community spirit. From soulful jazz licks to eye-catching artworks, this festival promises to be a gumbo of delights for all your senses!
The Art Festival
The Jazz and Art Festival isn’t just about the music. Local artists will be showcasing their talents, turning the City Market into an open-air gallery. Keep an eye out for Ed Deyo’s versatile creations, from suspended mobiles to unique lampshades, each piece a one-of-a-kind marvel. Joseph Giri, the mastermind behind Anniston’s iconic murals, will show his smaller-scale artistic works to both admirers or buyers. For those who love a splash of color, Michelle McGrady’s free-flowing, textured paintings will surely catch your eye.
There’s also a creative opportunity for festival attendees who may have a secret desire to get their hands dirty (artistically speaking–paint and brushes being the tools). Artist Ridgely Smith will be leading a community paint project throughout the festival. Adults and teens can add their artistic touch to a giant 6′ x 4′ beach-themed canvas. And for kids, there’s a special art activity to help them utilize their talents as well.
The VIP Experience and Low Country Boil
On Friday night, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the festival kicks off with an exclusive VIP event that’ll make you feel like jazz royalty. Picture this: you’re relaxing in the cool October air, surrounded by amazing art, with the sounds of live jazz filling the air. And the pièce de résistance? A mouthwatering low country boil that’ll transport your taste buds straight to Louisiana!
Roll Cajun Boudin will be serving up a feast fit for a jazz king or queen. We’re talking fresh Gulf shrimp, Andouille sausage, mini red potatoes, corn, and all the fixings. And as if that weren’t enough, they’re throwing in authentic Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo and a slice of festive King Cake to keep the good times rolling.
Sip on refreshing drinks from the beer garden and bar (sponsored by Sunny King), and don’t forget to check out the curated art collection available for purchase. It’s an experience that’ll have everyone talking long after the last note fades away.
Time is ticking, so make sure to purchase your limited VIP tickets here – but hurry, they’re hotter than a Louisiana summer!
The Jazz-Inspired Musical Line-up
The 2024 Jazz and Art Festival is bringing a lineup that’ll have you snapping your fingers and swaying to the beat all weekend long. On Friday night, Swoop the Band, featuring talented musicians from Jacksonville State University, will headline the VIP event with their sizzling jazz tunes, including Evan Tigue on keys/sax, Aiden McLendon on trumpet, Ryan Barrett on guitar/trumpet, Davian Turner on drums, and Isaiah Shupe on bass/guitar. Given that they are hot off a recent performance at Anniston’s first annual “Downtown After Dark Series,” they’re sure to have already won over some new fans.
Saturday’s free public event is a full day of jazz-tastic performances. The Jax State Jazz Band and Jacksonville High School Jazz Band will show off the incredible local talent we’re nurturing right here in Calhoun County.
Don’t miss the Andy Nevala Quartet, led by Dr. Andy Nevala himself, the Director of Jazz Studies at Jacksonville State University. This group brings together world-class musicians, including drummer Emrah Kotan, Latin percussionist Frankie Quinones, and bassist Isreal Cedeno. With their diverse backgrounds and impressive resumes, they’re sure to deliver a performance that’ll knock your socks off!
Other acts to catch include T.A.D. of Jazz, more JSU Jazz ensembles, and the Tyne Seymour Quartet. It’s a jazz lover’s dream come true!
Cheaha Creative Arts: Painting a Brighter Future for Anniston
While the Jazz and Art Festival is all about having a good time, it’s also supporting a fantastic cause. Cheaha Creative Arts, led by Director Ashley Martin, has been enriching our community for 14 years with its commitment to affordable fine arts education.
The organization runs two primary programs. The Arts in Schools Initiative brings art teachers and supplies directly into Anniston schools at no cost, giving students the chance to explore their creativity in an educational setting where art classes might not otherwise be available.
Additionally, their Fine Arts Program, hosted at the historic St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, offers affordable private lessons in violin, viola, piano, and guitar. With prices ranging from $20-$25 per month for lessons and instruments provided for practice, Cheaha Creative Arts is making music accessible to everyone in our community. They also offer inspiring private art lessons and classes, providing the needed art supplies.
“We wanted to do this event to show the community the art opportunities we have available, showcase local artists, and allow the opportunity for people to enjoy a different type of music,” says Ashley Martin, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to fostering artistic growth in Anniston.
Proceeds from the ticket sales for the VIP Low County Boil, as well as from their sponsors including Sunny King and Knox Arts and Entertainment, will go to helping to cover the costs of what Cheaha Creative Arts provides to the community.
Don’t Miss the Beat – Join Us for This Unforgettable Event!
The 2024 Mainstreet Anniston Jazz and Art Festival is more than just an event – it’s a celebration of our community’s vibrant culture and creative spirit. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a fantastic way to spend a weekend, this festival has something for everyone.
So mark your calendars for October 11-12, 2024, and get ready to jazz up your autumn! Bring your friends, bring your family, and most importantly, bring your enthusiasm for great music and amazing art. Let’s show the world that Anniston knows how to throw a party with soul!
For more information and to secure your VIP tickets, visit the event page or contact Mainstreet Anniston. Don’t let this chance to support local arts and have an incredible time slip away – we’ll see you at the City Market!