Jazz blooms Thursdays at TBG

7/2/2004

Jazz in the Garden kicks off a seven-week evening concert series Thursday with a 6:30 performance by the Toledo Jazz Orchestra.

Many of the area's most popular jazz musicians will be featured in this summer's season at the Toledo Botanical Garden, which concludes Aug. 19. Upcoming concerts feature Rachel Richardson and Friends on July 15; Hepcat Revival on July 22; Ramona Collins, July 29; Gene Parker & Jimmy Cook, Aug. 5; 6th Edition on Aug. 12, and Jean Holden on Aug. 19.

In case of rain, some shows may be moved inside the conference center or rescheduled for Aug. 26, said Angie Kessler, TBG events and marketing manager.

TBG is normally open and free until 8:30 p.m., but on concert days, the garden will close at 5 p.m. and re-open immediately with an admission charge. Picnics are permitted and people should bring their own chairs or blankets. Ice cream will be available for purchase.

The series began in 1997 with four concerts. Audience sizes have been as large as 600 people.

In addition to the evening jazz series, TBG will host free noon concerts every other Friday beginning July 9. On alternate Fridays, beginning July 16, the noon concerts will be held at the Manor House at Wildwood Preserve Metropark.

TBG is operated as a public/private partnership between the city of Toledo and the Toledo Botanical Garden Board, Inc.

Jazz concerts are from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is $7; $6 for seniors and children 2 to 12; $5 for members of TBG or the Toledo Jazz Society. Children under 2 will be admitted free. Toledo Botanical Garden is at 5403 Elmer Dr., Toledo. Information: 419-936-2986 or www.toledogarden.org.