Jazz Roots in Five Points Celebrates Black History Month

Two terrific Saturdays of live music, spoken word poetry, dance, and art on the Welton Street corridor. Denver, Colorado – The Five Points Business Improvement District is excited to announce the upcoming second annual Jazz Roots event series, scheduled for Saturday, February 17th and Saturday, February 24th. As part of the neighborhood’s celebration of Black History Month, this free event invites local residents and jazz enthusiasts to experience the rich history of jazz through live performances, spoken word poetry, dance, and more.

The Five Points neighborhood, once known as the “Harlem of the West,” holds a significant place in jazz history. From the 1930s to the 1950s, renowned jazz musicians performed in local clubs and bars, many of which still stand today. Jazz Roots aims to honor this vibrant history and celebrate the enduring influence of black culture on American history at large.

“We are thrilled to bring back Jazz Roots for its second year,” said Haroun Cowans, Board Chair of the Five Points Business Improvement District. “This free event not only showcases the incredible talent in our community but also pays homage to the rich jazz heritage that has shaped the Five Points neighborhood.”

Jazz Roots 2024 will feature a diverse lineup of musicians, poets, and dancers who will captivate audiences with their performances. Highlighting the classic jazz music from the American Song Book, attendees can expect extraordinary performances replicating tunes once performed by legends such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Some of the notable performers at Jazz Roots 2024 include:
• Queen City Jazz Band: Known for their authentic renditions of traditional jazz, Queen City Jazz Band will transport audiences back in time with their soulful melodies.
• Gabe Mervine Jazz Trio: Gabe Mervine and his trio will mesmerize listeners with their smooth and contemporary jazz sound.
• Taryn Newborne: Taryn Newborn’s powerful and soulful voice will pay tribute to the great jazz vocalists of the past, enchanting the audience with her passionate performances.

Saturday, February 17
2-4 p.m.
The Queen City Jazz Band – Dixieland Jazz – Jazz Poetry — Spangalang Brewery, 2736 Welton St.

2 & 4 p.m.
Jazz Musician Interviews and Black Art Exhibit — Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton St.

4:30-6:30 p.m.
Drop-in Jazz Jam with the Five Points Ambassadors — Spangalang Brewery 2736 Welton St.

5-7 p.m.
Wil Alston Group – Live Jazz music, poetry, and dance presentations — 2201 Welton St.

Saturday, February 24

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Drop in Jazz Jam All Ages Session — Cervantes Other Side, 2635 Welton St.

2 & 4 p.m.
Jazz Musician Interviews and Black Art Exhibit — Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton St.

3-5 p.m.
Taryn Newborne and jazz poetry presentations — The Lydian, 2590 Welton St.

5-7 p.m.
Gabe Mervine Trio + Sweet B – Live Jazz music and poetry presentations — The Dorsey, 600 Park Ave West.

 

Jazz Roots is a community-driven event that aims to bring people together to celebrate the beauty and significance of jazz music. Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the Five Points neighborhood while enjoying live music, dance performances, and spoken word poetry.

About Five Points Business Improvement District The Five Points Business Improvement District is dedicated to strengthening and enhancing the efforts of businesses and property owners in the Historic Five Points neighborhood of Denver. Situated along Welton Street on the northeast edge of downtown Denver, the district promotes the area as a cultural and tourism destination for arts, culture, and entertainment. It showcases Denver’s African American history and the neighborhood’s rich jazz heritage.

See more information about the Five Points Business Improvement District

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