Five Points Jazz Fest: 11 years and counting

interview with Niecie Washington

In its 11th year, the Five Points has kept alive a decades old tradition of swinging, live jazz music in this historic neighborhood.  Niecie Washington organizes this weekend’s event (May 17, 2014) on behalf of Denver Arts & Venues.  She visited “First Take with Lando and Chavis” with details of the family event.

“The neighborhood has been so fantastic about the festival,” said Washington.   “Everybody comes out!”  Crowds may tip 20,000 this year, but the offerings along Welton will keep the energy spread out at venues along Welton Street, from the new Climax Events Center at 23rd, to the Blair Caldwell Library (2401 Welton, Jason Klobnak leading “Jazz 101” seminars), to the main stage outside the KUVO studios at 29th and Welton.  A true festival, 30+ bands on eight stages are presented.

Details are posted at www.ArtsandVenuesDenver.com.

Music on this feature by Tierney Sutton, “Old Devil Moon,” from the CD Blue in Green, and (festival headliners) Brad Leali and His Orchestra, “Special K,” from the CD Maria Juanez.