Senior Staff Writer
Over the years the Jazz Festival has brought life and culture to our campus; this Friday and Saturday will mark the 27th year members of the community will come together to enjoy live music, food, family and friends.
Attendees will have the chance to indulge in a variety of foods while they enjoy the entertainment; from deep-pit BBQ to Greek specialties and for those in need of a sweet treat Ben and Jerry’s ice cream and caramel corn will be sold. Beer and wine will be available as. For those who purchase a table, waiters are readily available to serve wine and beer, but food is purchased at the Food Vendor Area.
While the music fills the air, members of the audience can check out the merchandise area to buy CDs from the artists of the evening, T-shirts and other products in the artists pavilion area.
The official festivities will begin Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. with performances by bass player Robin Bramlett along with Bakersfield saxophonist Darren Gholston, soul singer Billy Vera of Billy Vera Big Band and the “King of neo-soul” Roy Ayers.
The music, activities and food services will continue at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday beginning with the young talent of the Kern County Honor Jazz Band, followed by the jazz-funk band of CSUB and BC students, Color Blind; CSUB Alum, composer and professor at University of Puget Sound, Rob Hutchinson; Clayton Cameron & the Jass Explosion; veteran world-class group, Tizer; electrifying salsa band, Avance and contemporary funk/jazz artist Euge Groove. There will also be a fireworks show at 9:15 p.m.
CSUB faculty, staff, students and children under 12 can attend the event for free. For information about tickets for general admission or purchasing a table for six go to bakersfieldjazz.com. Tickets can be bought in advance at the cashier’s office and online or at the gate. All proceeds from the festival, with the exception of the Bakersfield Jazz Festival merchandise, go to CSUB student scholarships. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.
