Freddy Fuego photo by Daniel Sheehan
2024 Earshot Jazz Commissioned Artist
We are excited to announce that Freddy “Fuego” Gonzalez is this year’s recipient of the Earshot Jazz Commission. Gonzalez is a trombonist, educator, and host of KNKX’s Jazz Caliente radio show. There were 36 submissions this year that were reviewed by a community panel. Gonzalez will compose and premiere an original piece at the 2024 Earshot Jazz Festival. Later on this year, we’ll share more about Gonzalez and a sneak peek into his commission vision. Stay tuned!
Conor Byrne Pub Closes
Conor Byrne Pub, the Irish bar in historic old Ballard, closed its doors on March 31 after struggling to stay open amidst the pandemic’s effects and industry changes. The pub has been a mainstay for several local artists over the past 30+ years. In a Facebook post about its impending closure, the owners shared, “I like to think that we have harvested communities around the local music scene, provided a safe and welcoming space for everyone, and hopefully a place to just have some fun.” The owners are searching for someone to take over the space “in hopes they can continue in the spirit of the old, and also inspire new growth.” While the loss of another venue is profound, nothing can replace the memories made over the last three decades in this much-beloved space.
Book Seattle JazzED’s Jazz Bands
Are you looking for a band to hire for your event and want to support top-notch high school musicians? Look no further! You can now book a JazzED student band for a variety of occasions, all while supporting students in getting real life experience alongside their mentors and sharing the joy of jazz with the community. Choose between the JazzED Combo, a multi-instrument, improvisational, 3+ piece band well suited for “cocktail hour ambiance”; or the JazzED Second Line, a fun, high energy, musical walking street parade led by 8+ skilled performers. JazzED bands consist of a mix of students and their skilled musical mentors. Inquiries must be submitted at least 4-6 weeks in advance of an event. Learn more at seattlejazzed.org/book-a-jazz-band.
