Putting on free jazz concerts over the summer in memory of two dedicated people is perhaps the most loving thing one could do. This is exactly what Deborah Love did, daughter of Jackie Sachs and Joe Sachs, one of Maryland Hall’s founders. Lucky for those near Annapolis, we too benefit from Deborah’s honoring of her parents’ legacy with “Sachs Memorial Summer Jazz Series.”
The idea to host jazz concerts at Maryland Hall all started with Jackie Sachs. Jackie wished to do the jazz series in honor of her late husband, Joe. Jackie passed before the dream came to fruition, but her daughter did not let the idea fall by the wayside. And thus, Annapolis can enjoy a laid back night of free jazz by area musicians.
The first Sachs jazz night was on June 6. Missed it? Here’s what went down:
Much loved and busy D.C. musicians grouped under the name “Potomac Jazz Project” played that night at six. Potomac Jazz Project typically performs near 150 times a year at places like The Kennedy Center and The Smithsonian. Needless to say, Annapolis was fortunate to hear the melodies and smooth beats from Potomac Jazz Project.
Potomac Jazz Project is spearheaded by Stan Hamrick, the group’s bassist. Steve Wolfe is the group’s sax man; Gene D’Andrea is on the drums; and Will Greenwade plays the keyboard. Visit their site for music shows and more: http://potomacjazz.com/.
As you can see from the picture above, the concert isn’t in a fancy setting; Sachs strips away the fluff and propriety and makes these concerts about the music. Everyone sits on the ground, lending a hand to a closer, more familial vibe. Bringing coolers of food and drinks (non-alcoholic) is perfectly fine. However, if you’d like to really make it easy on yourself, purchase food and drinks in Hard Bean Cafe, on the first floor of Maryland Hall. Beer and wine are available at the concert; Maryland Hall asks you don’t bring your own.
As for the rest you should know about Sachs Memorial Summer Jazz Series, pack a blanket or chair, food, drinks, and mark your calendar for June 27–the next installment in the series!
•June 27, Afro Bop Alliance plays at 6 p.m.
•July 18, Jeff Antoniuk and the Jazz Update perform at 6 p.m.
•August 8, Tom Lagana Group jazzes it up at 6 p.m.
•August 29, see Zach Smith & The Dixie Power Trio at 6 p.m.
•September 12 is the last concert for this series: Rob Levit at 5:30 p.m.
You can’t miss the concert–you’ll hear the music and see fun enthusiasts relaxing on the grass area in front of Maryland Hall. Embark on a night of free music that is held in the legacy of art advocates. Head to www.marylandhall.org to learn more about Sachs Memorial Summer Jazz Series and other events, concerts, and classes they offer.
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