“Music and Movies @ the Big Bandshell” is the theme of JazzMn Big Band’s concert on August 29^th in Cannon Falls, MN. Music from Minnesota’s premiere jazz orchestra will be followed by a family-friendly movie, and it’s all free.

Photo by Andrea Canter

JazzMN Big Band is a nonprofit ensemble formed in 1998 “to promote, preserve and perpetuate jazz, America’s indigenous art music, through performance, historical preservation and educational outreach.” Directed by trumpeter/educator Dr. Douglas Snapp, JazzMN Big Band performs an annual concert series in the metro area as well as appearing at other venues throughout the year. Most recently the band performed at the Bloomington Jazz Festival.

Photo by Andrea Canter

The performance in Cannon Falls will take place from 7-8 pm (prior to the film) at the Cannon Falls Bandshell off Highway 19. The playlist will include such classics as Count Basie’s “Lester Leaps In,” Thad Jones’ “Don’t Get Sassy,” and Bobby Timmons’ “Moanin’.” Vocalist Judi Donaghy will channel Rosemary Clooney in her rendition of David Frishberg’s “I Want to Be a Sideman.”

Photo by Andrea Canter

The 17-piece orchestra draws from a large pool of well-known area jazz artists, including Mary Louise Knutson (piano); Pete Whitman and Dave Milne (alto sax); Dave Karr and Greg Keel (tenor sax); Kathy Jensen (bari sax); Michael Nelson, Dave Graf, and Ethan Frier (trombone); Wade Clark (bass trombone); Bernie Edstrom, Dave Jensen, and John Ahern (trumpet); Dave Singley (guitar); Terry Burns (bass); and Joe Pulice (drums).

For information about the 2005-06 JazzMN Big Band season, visit www.jazzmn.org