Joe’s Jazz and Blues Fest 2013 enlivened venues across the city last week. – Photo by Martynas Limantas

By Martynas Limantas

Presented by the Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the Somerville Arts Council, a lineup of blues and jazz shows took place at various music venues around Somerville this past week.

The big event, Joe’s Jazz and Blues Fest 2013, featuring an array of talent, local and national, capped off the festivities at Powderhouse Park on Saturday, June 22. It was an all-day, free concert with performances from Somerville High School Jazz Ensemble, Darrell Nulisch, The Brett Walberg Group, Geoff Bartley and Howie Tarnower, Willie Laws, and last but not least The Fringe.

“Somerville boasts one of the funkiest and most robust arts’ scene in the nation. We have more artists per capita of any city outside of New York City, and we are proud of our ability to showcase their work and talent through events like the Jazz and Blues Fest. Our locals musicians are some of the best in the region, and every year this festival continues to amaze and bring large crowds to Somerville for a week of great entertainment,” said Mayor Curtatone in a statement, who played trumpet in the Somerville High School Jazz Band.

“We have a nice lineup, a mix of blues and jazz, so stick around,” said Gregory Jenkins, Executive Director of the Somerville Arts Council to the applause of the assembling crowd. After a short greeting, the first act took the stage.

With the sun beaming down and the crowd lounging on the grass, jazzy and bluesy notes permeated the surroundings. Here and there, heads were bobbing to the rhythm of bass and drums. Mellowed by the balmy atmosphere everyone present was enjoying the show.

With the guitar, saxophone, piano, harmonica solos infusing the hazy June air more blankets and folding chairs gathered round the stage. Families and friends, and anyone else who stumbled upon the sounding notes, were drawn to the easy listening tunes.

The event showcased many talented musicians for many to come out and spend a day outdoors with family and friends. It’s a way for the community to gather and listen to good music. There are plans for the event to continue next year.