Village Jazz Series returns

For the third season, the Village Jazz Series will be presented at the Yuma Palms Regional Center each Thursday evening starting this week until March 26.
 
From 6 to 8 p.m. each Thursday, different musical groups will entertain.
 
"The series is unique, in that groups performing will range in size from trio to big band," said Steven Hennig, organizer. "Musicians are from San Diego, El Centro, Phoenix and Tucson. In addition to Yuma entertainers, bands will be from Yuma area, plus the University of Arizona and Arizona State University."
 
The venue is The Village area in front of the Harkins Theatres and shops on each side. Restaurants and other food stores are open on both sides.
 
"A special incentive is there is no charge to hear and see the entertainment. Because of cooler weather, it is suggested attendees wear warmer clothing and can also bring chairs for seating," Hennig said.
 
Hennig is director of the Yuma Jazz Company, a popular quintet that has entertained locally for several years.
 
"We'll be the first on the schedule for Thursday. We play straight ahead, Latin and contemporary jazz. We also have several original selections, with seven on the album, '95 North,'" added Hennig, a trumpet and flugelhorn player.
 
Performing with Hennig are Carl Posch, guitarist; Jon Knudtson, stand-up bass; Brian Carlson, saxes, and Brandon Coz, drums.
 
The schedule for the remainder of the series:

• Jan. 22 - Yuma Big Band
 
• Jan. 29 - Rob Thorsen Trio
 
• Feb. 5 - High schools jazz band night
 
• Feb. 12 - ASU with Moseyhorse (Jeff Libman)
 
• Feb.  19 - Latin Jazz Eruption (Jazz of Yuma)
 
• Feb. 26 - Arizona Western College and Yuma High
 
• March 5 - Standing Room Only (El Centro)
 
• March 12 - Yuma Jazz Company
 
• March 19 - Pete Pancrazi Trio (Phoenix and Yuma) 
 
• March 26 - University of Arizona Studio Jazz Ensemble.


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Pam M. Smith can be reached at psmith@yumasun.com or 539-6856.