Ellicottville Jazz and Blues Festival This Weekend
Ellicottville Jazz and Blue Festival This Weekend
The Vibe is High as Ellicottville “Gets Jazzy” Baby!
Louis Armstrong. Miles Davis. John Coltrane. Nat King Cole. Even if you’re not a fan of jazz, chances are you recognize these names. Arguably some of the most influential musicians of their time, these famous trumpeters, saxophonists, double bass players and beboppers defined the jazz movement and triggered the evolution and progression of so many who followed in their footsteps.
And like the various forms of jazz genres available today, Ellicottville itself offers a multitude of musical platforms in the form of festivals - Summer Music Fest, Rock N’ Roll Weekend, and the one hitting the streets this weekend, inspired by the above mentioned greats.
Welcome to Jazz & Blues Weekend. Want a preview?
THE VIBE: This weekend isn’t just for your old-school grams and gramps (although they certainly will be in their prime). July 28-30 invites families out for a good mix of live entertainment, outdoor adventure and summertime treats to cool you down following one, two, three days of jam-packed fun. Do mom and dad want to tour the local breweries and wineries? Are the kids begging to climb the trees and ride the mountain coaster at Holiday Valley? What about Uncle Ron and Aunt Ruth, who are looking to take in all the sights and sounds of downtown? Every member of your family or friend group will fill their fun meter. And if they’re not a fan of jazz, they just may well be after this weekend.
THE MUSIC: Actually, it’s not just about jazz. The festival’s full name is Jazz & Blues Weekend, which means Ellicottville is bringing in a diverse schedule of performers. So yes! There will absolutely be a tune to toot everyone’s musical horn! What’s iconic about Ellicottville’s Jazz & Blues Weekend is the festival’s main stage, set up on the street, which is closed down to allow ample room for those looking to sit and relax and enjoy the music, and those with happy feet wanting to cut up a rug.
The main stage, located directly in front of the Winery of Ellicottville on Monroe Street, will host two epic acts. Epic Eagles will perform the timeless music of the Eagles and Don Henley on Saturday, July 29th from 1:00-4:00pm. Audiences can expect to hear some of the Eagles’ biggest hit songs including Hotel California, One of These Nights, Life in the Fast Lane, Desperado, Dirty Laundry, New Kid In Town, Take It Easy, The Boys Of Summer, and more. Experience and relive an era gone by as it continues into the next millennium.
Return to the Winery Main Stage on Sunday at 1:00pm and take a seat for the Mark Mazur Little Big Band. This 10-piece band plays everything from smooth jazz to contemporary easy-listening and American standards. The band features vocals by Lisa Christie, who can belt out tunes from the likes of Anita Baker and Whitney Houston. Mark himself plays keyboard/piano and also provides vocals. There is also a full brass section, vibraphones, full rhythm section with rhythm guitar, drums, bass and more.
At the other end of Monroe Street, Ellicottville Brewing Company will host the Tippin’ Time Quartet Saturday evening from 6:00-9:00pm. These all-seasoned jazz instrumentalists will bring out the trombone, piano, double bass and drums for an unforgettable performance. No doubt listening to this group will pair perfectly with a pint of EBC’s Mow Master IPA or Blueberry Wheat Ale.
THE FOOD AND DRINK: Speaking of ales and IPAs, keep your palate wet with a visit to the Winery of Ellicottville (wine tastings offered daily), Ellicottville Distillery (Appleshine, anyone?), Steelbound Brewery (oh my god there are so many flavors!) or a quick in-and-out at E-Ville Spirits for your own personal cocktail hour back at your condo or hotel. Please drink responsibly, and don’t forget to grab a bite to eat beforehand. With so many summer lunch and dinner menus to choose from, you can take your pick from fresh, crisp salads to creative wraps, burgers, falafels, tacos and more. Spoil the kiddos with a Root Beer float from The Tee Bar or classic milkshake from Watson’s Chocolates.
THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE: Park the car and saunter the bars and restaurants for more than your share of jazz, blues and classics all weekend long. Take advantage of the 3-pool complex at Holiday Valley or the downhill bike park at HoliMont. Lodging options are available for all price points, and there’s definitely no shortage of adventure. Hit up ellicottvilleny.com and plan your stay!
