The City of Beaumont’s Jazz at the Lake series kicks off this month with the Lamar University Cardinal Jazz Orchestra and the Jimmy Simmons Quintet. The free concert takes place Thursday, March 24 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the The Event Centre in downtown.
The Lamar Cardinal Jazz Orchestra features instruments traditionally used at the height of the big band era during the 1930’s and 40’s. The 17-piece band includes five saxophones, eight brass, piano, bass, guitar, and drums. The current ensemble plays contemporary arrangements of classic and modern tunes.
“Our Jazz Orchestra has had a busy Spring semester, performing several concerts around the region,” said the band’s conductor and Lamar University Associate, Professor, Rick Condit. “Most recently we performed at the Jazz@1900 Jazz Festival at Waltrip High School in North Houston, where we were joined by legendary jazz trumpeter, Jon Faddis.”
In addition to live jazz, there will be free beer tastings by 2-Row Distributing (the Craft Beer Division of Del Papa). Jazz at the Lake is a free, ongoing series that has taken place annually at The Event Centre for three years. The concerts attract those looking for a unique and affordable activity in downtown Beaumont. Each year, Southeast Texans fill The Event Centre for the indoor concerts, while the outdoor patio and neighboring playground overflow with families.
