by Ari Roth
Following on the heels of last month’s Lancaster Avenue Jazz Festival, there’s a new jazz fest in town, this one based on Cecil B. Moore Avenue. The 8th annual Jazz on the Ave will hit town this Saturday, and you can come, hang out, and enjoy the music for yourself at zero cost.
The evening’s bill will feature eight acts on the main stage and three more on the 2nd stage, along with treats and activities for children. Headlining the festival will be slow-burning Philly soul singer Carol Riddick, along with the far-reaching latin jazz ensemble SYOTOS, led by Chris Washburne on trombone, and finally neo-New Orleans trombonist Jeff Bradshaw. Also featured on the main stage will be the Modern Legends Drill Team kicking the afternoon off with a 15 minute set before the festival begins. They will be followed by back to back sets by the young musicians Emmanuel Houndo on violin and vocalist Cam Anthony. Jazz/hip hop fusion band Mozaic Flow will play a set, as will keyboardist Stan Brisbon, accompanied by Serious Mixx. Meanwhile, on the 2nd stage, Emmanuel Houndo and Cam Anthony will be back for more, along with Philly band Music Over Matter. For the younger fans, there will be a specially designated “Kids Zone” boasting a moon bounce, face painting, clay and a rock climbing wall, along with cotton candy and popcorn to satisfy your kid’s sweet tooth.
Jazz on the Ave will run throughout the afternoon and evening of Saturday, August 16th, from noon to 7:30 PM. The festival grounds are located at Broad & Cecil B. Moore Avenue, with an additional stage at Sydenham & Cecil B. Moore Avenue. In the possible event of rain, the festival will be moved to the following day, Sunday, August 17th, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if you plan on coming!
