Clifford Brown Jazz Festival facts for kids
The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival is a super cool free jazz music festival that happens every year in June. It takes place at Rodney Square in Wilmington, Delaware, USA. This festival is a big celebration of jazz music and a way to remember a famous jazz trumpet player named Clifford Brown.
The first festival was held way back in 1989. It started on a big open lawn in the middle of the city. Since then, it has grown a lot! Now, it's the biggest free jazz festival on the East Coast of the United States.
The festival keeps the memory of Clifford Brown alive. He was a brilliant musician who sadly passed away in a car accident in 1956. Another musician, pianist Richie Powell, also died in that accident. At the festival, you'll often hear songs written by Clifford Brown. You might also hear "tribute" songs, like Benny Golson's "I Remember Clifford," which was written to honor him. Sometimes, special performances have also been held at the Winterthur Museum, where a small fee was charged.
What Happens at the Festival?
The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival brings together amazing jazz artists from all over the world. It's a chance for people of all ages to enjoy live jazz music for free! You can hear different styles of jazz, from classic tunes to more modern sounds. It's a great way to discover new favorite musicians or enjoy performances by famous ones.
A Look Back at the Music
Over the years, many incredible musicians and bands have played at the festival. Hundreds of talented artists have shared their music with the crowds in Wilmington. Here are just a few examples of the many performers who have graced the stage:
- In 2020, artists like the Arturo Stable Quartet and Jeff Bradshaw Band performed.
- The 2019 festival featured stars such as Christian Scott and Branford Marsalis.
- In 2018, audiences enjoyed performances by Arturo Sandoval and Marcus Miller.
- Famous names like Regina Carter and Robert Glasper Trio played in 2017 and 2016.
- The festival has also hosted legendary groups like the Count Basie Orchestra and the Rebirth Brass Band.
- Many other jazz greats, including McCoy Tyner, Stanley Clarke, Jean Luc Ponty, Herbie Hancock, and Wynton Marsalis, have also performed.
- Even earlier, in the 1990s, the festival welcomed stars like Sonny Rollins, Betty Carter, and Lou Rawls.
The festival continues to be a highlight for jazz lovers and a wonderful community event in Delaware.
