Ambos Nogales plans Mingus Jazz Festival

Thirty years after his death, Charles Mingus continues to entice and mesmerize his many fans. In honor of this remarkable jazz icon, a native of Nogales, Ariz., there will be a second annual celebration, “Charles Mingus Hometown Jazz Festival” to be held April 17-19, in Ambos Nogales.

Friday night festivities are scheduled at the Pierson Field Complex, 451 N. Arroyo Blvd. at 7:30 p.m. and are free. There will be food, arts and crafts and displays, as well as games for kids. Special guests will be the Borderline 7 Dixieland “Jass” Band.

Saturday’s festivities will be from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. with food, music, fun and games for children and families. There will be a special Buffalo Soldier presentation, Jazz For Kids sessions, and Jazz for Adult sessions, art exhibits, and a Charles Mingus Film Festival. This will be at the Pierson Field in downtown Nogales.

Saturday night, The Big Band Gala Concert is scheduled at the James K. Clark Performing Arts Center at the Nogales High School. Adult tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door, $5 for students. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. with the “Santa Cruz Jazz Orchestra,” with Ken Tittelbaugh directing, in the company of special guest and renowned trumpet artist, Jesse McGuire.

At 8:30 p.m. the transition will begin with “Young Sounds of Arizona,” Barb Catlin, director; featuring Dennis Rowland, jazz vocalist formerly with the “Count Basie Band.”

On Sunday, April 19, the Rio Rico Esplendor Resort will have a “Margarita Jazz Brunch” from 10 a.m.-noon, featuring jazz vocalist “Julie Anne and Band.” Tickets are $25 for advance sale only.

Log on to www.mingusproject.com for tickets or call (520) 287-3685.