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Jazz To Fill Riverhills Park

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By JOYCE McKENZIE

jmckenzie@tampatrib.com

Published: March 4, 2009

TEMPLE TERRACE - An afternoon in the park by the river, soaking up the sun and listening to the sounds of internationally known University of South Florida jazz musicians - what better way for people to take their minds off the struggling economy.

Mindful that many are feeling its effects, Temple Terrace Mayor Joe Affronti was the inspiration behind the Sunday's Jazz Concert for the People at Riverhills Park.

It will feature USF's 17-piece Jazz Ensemble, a group of musicians who, under the direction of Tom Brantly, have performed throughout Europe, including invitation-only concerts in France, Italy and at the Tuscany Jazz Festival.

"They are really an excellent group and we hope to get a good turnout," Affronti said. "It's important to show our citizens the different kinds of things we can offer in our city."

The musicians' selections will range from classic to contemporary, with some original works by undergraduate and graduate students.

"It's going to feature most of our finest jazz musicians," said Jack Wilkins, USF's director of jazz studies. He helped coordinate the event with Affronti and Joe LoPinto, president of Temple Terrace's Masque Community Theatre, a partnering sponsor with USF.

LoPinto, who noted the jazz ensemble performed at the theater last year when it featured the works of renowned jazz artists such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Miles Davis, is grateful to Wilkins for his efforts in bringing the group to Temple Terrace again this year.

"I also commend Mayor Affronti for his part in pulling this all together," LoPinto said. "He wants to bring people together and we at Masque do, too."

Wilkens calls the upcoming event a fine partnership and a great outreach opportunity for the students.

The theatre and the city "have also been very supportive of our initiatives on campus," he said.

City Manager Kim Leinbach said the city is proud of its alliance with USF and is pleased to host the concert.

"We like to see the variety of venues used in our city and it's typical of our city to have events of all kinds that draw our residents together," he said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and snacks if they wish. There also will be light refreshments available for purchase. Parking is free.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Jazz Concert for the People

WHEN: 2 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Riverhills Park, 329 S. Riverhills Drive

COST: $10 per person, $8 for groups of four or more

INFORMATION: (813) 983-1710

Reporter Joyce McKenzie can be reached at (813) 865-4849.

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