Nothing, on this earth goes better with Wine, than Jazz…well maybe chocolate comes close. Two of my passions that I have had the pleasure of being introduced to along my life journey, is Wine and Jazz. I’m trying to remember which came into my life first, wine or jazz? It’s hard to imagine one without the other. Because, it’s the perfect pairing!
Wine Festivals & Events
I have traveled to many Wine Festivals and Jazz Events, and I don’t think it’s permitted to allow anything but Jazz Musicians to perform at these events. JK…(just kidding). Honestly, I have made many jazz friends along the way and I will tell you, they are genuine, talented and passionate people. I love the atmosphere, electricity and excitement of being at a live jazz festival. I take my lawn chair and place it in the perfect spot to see the artists, which just happens to be next to the Wine tent for ease of access. This is no coincidence friends and wine lovers. But, I don’t sit in that lawn chair much. Because, I’m always danc’n with my glass of wine.
Anyway, I will be listing Jazz Events here for those Wine and Jazz Enthusiasts who are searching for the best events in their region. I will also list my favorite Smooth Jazz Radio Stations for your listening pleasure. Enjoy and Cheers, Char
Smooth Jazz Radio Stations
SmoothJazz.com is my all time favorite smooth jazz radio station. Usually, I listen while I am riding long distance on my road bike. It seems to keep me move’n right along and they don’t play the same music that you can set your watch to either. Smooth Jazz Global Radio gets FIVE stars!
My Favorite Jazz Artists
Paul Brown – PB is my favorite jazz guitarist. Admittedly, I am a bit prejudice though. He has become a good friend over the years because, I have been his web developer for the past 15 years. I met Paul at the Rams Head in Annapolis Maryland when I drove 7 hours from Erie, PA, to see his show. After the show, as I was in line to get his autograph on my CD, we spoke for a bit and he said that he needed a new web developer. I gave him my business card and in a couple of weeks, he contacted me about this position. Of course, I agreed and have been doing his website since then.
Paul the Wine Connoisseur
Paul is a huge wine connoisseur and certainly knows his wine. If I ever have any questions, he points me in the right direction, without fail. I love this guy and his wife Jacqui, who is so talented in every aspect. This girl wears the red cape for all women. She is THE home improvement Diva who wears a tool belt, owning every tool and gadget know to man. Jacqui is first and foremost a writer, a comedian who has killed at stand-up, and recently wrote her own CD, with a cause. I just adore this power couple! Oh, I can’t forget Miles, their dog…
PB agreed to perform at my wedding, but due to a last minute schedule change, he and Jacqui created a video for me instead. You can view it here. He wrote this song (Love You Found Me) for Jacqui and I found it appropriate for my wedding song. Thank you again Paul & Jacqui. You both mean the world to me.
Chris Botti
I believe this guy is the greatest trumpeter of all time. I have been to 3 different venues to see him and, blown away each time. He takes the time to meet with his fans after every show, as you can see here. Chris travels to all parts of the world and I don’t believe he knows where to call home. In my opinion, if you have a chance to see one of his performances, you must go.
Chris Botti’s Band
I just want to mention that Chris has the greatest guys in his band. Billy Kilson is his drummer, which is a show in itself! He has tremendous energy and chews his gum as fast as he plays the drums. Mark Whitfield plays lead guitar…the famous RED guitar. Both guys are quite talented and compliment Chris completely. I highly recommend seeing this show!
Wine and Jazz Festivals & Events
Alexander Zonjic’s Cabin Fever Jazz Festival
Detroit, MI – March 2020
Ballard Jazz Festival
Ballard/Seattle, Washington – April 2020
Bakersfield Jazz Festival
Bakersfield, California – April 2020
Atlanta Jazz Festival
Atlanta, Georgia
Remember, since many of the Wine Festivals are updated and changed periodically, the Calendar of Events and venues will be changing also. So, don’t forget to check back. I look forward to bringing you up-to-date event information often.
Please, don’t forget to register to receive these updates so you can purchase your tickets as soon as the venues are confirmed. Surprisingly, they sell out quickly!
