12th Annual Central Avenue Jazz Festival

Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29

The Dunbar Economic Development Corporation, the artistic director of the Annual Central Avenue Jazz Festival, announced the stellar line-up for the 12th Annual Central Avenue Jazz Festival on Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

The streets of Central Avenue between 42nd Place and 43rd Street will come alive with the sounds of straight-ahead jazz and blues from high-caliber musicians:

Saturday, July 28:
Clora Bryant and guests, panel discussion
Paul Bryant Trio
Ernie Andrews, vocalist
Phil Ranelin
Jazz on the Latin Side All Stars
Arthur Blythe Quintet

Sunday, July 29:
Buddy Collette's Jazz America
CJS Quintet, winners of the Chuck Niles Award
Henry Franklin featuring Michael Sessions
Roy Gaines and surprise guests
Gilbert Castellanos Latin Trumpet Summit
Charles McPhearson
Sandra Booker's Underground Jazz Movement

The masters of ceremony are Michael Dolphin of the Dolphin's of Hollywood legacy, KKJZ Radio Personality Jose Rizo, and Jazz announcer James Janisse. Note: The order of appearance of performers may change.

"The Festival is one of the most important cultural events of the year," remarks Reginald Chapple, president and CEO of Dunbar EDC. "It is not only a tribute to the history of Los Angeles contribution to the music industry, but an opportunity for everyone to enjoy timeless music." Other activities at the Festival include art and crafts, food, and informational booths.

"Our focus, when selecting the entertainers, is to honor the rich music legacy of Central Avenue -- from the musicians to the orchestras that once graced the stages in nightclubs on Central Avenue," explained Jose Rizo, KKJZ radio personality and Dunbar EDC board member.

"It has always been important that the Central Avenue Festival reflects elements of the history of the avenue," says Michael Dolphin, a Dunbar EDC board member and Central Avenue historian. This year, blues legend Roy Gaines and surprise guests will lead a 50th Anniversary Tribute to "Mama" Laura Gross. Mama Laura has operated Babe and Ricky's (Blues) Inn, formerly located at 52nd and Central but now operating in Leimert Park, since 1957 - quite an accomplishment for any business owner, but certainly a tribute to the legacy of Central Avenue.

To learn more about the Dunbar EDC or the Festival, contact 323-234-7882 or visit the website at www.CentralAvenueJazzFestival.com.