What better way to end an extraordinary season of jazz than with a big band performing The Great American Songbook, and who better to perform the Great American Songbook than South Florida’s favorite son? The great Shelly Berg on piano along with the Frost Concert Jazz Band at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 18.
Berg is a composer, arranger, educator, conductor and jazz piano virtuoso. He has recorded with Woody Herman, Louis Bellson, Freddie Hubbard and Randy Brecker and many more. His solo CDs are critically hailed. The Frost Concert Jazz Band under the direction of John Daversa has been the University of Miami’s premiere large jazz ensemble for over 30 years. The band has numerous recordings to its credit, which showcase the long lineage of world-class talent.
Experience a night of jazz that will run from beautiful ballads to exciting, dynamic swing, from Irving Berlin to Cole Porter to George Gershwin. Berg is truly the best of the best and a jazz legend. His appearance will mark the final performance of the South Motors Jazz Series this year. For pre-concert dining, call 305- 669-6990; for tickets call 877-496-8499.
EARTH DAY FESTIVAL
Pinecrest invites you to celebrate this magnificent planet at from Noon- 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, when the gates open to the public for free admission to a day of activities for the entire family, including workshops organized by the CLEO Institute and Plant Societies, healthy food demos, planting activities, plant sales, an eco-fashion show, green vendors, wild life shows, Fantasy Theater, crafts for kids and much more. The Earth Day Festival will end with a very special performance by the Greater Miami Youth Symphony at 4 p.m. in the Banyan Bowl.
FAMILY FRIDAY
Frozen — The Sing-Along Version, is set for 8 p.m. Friday, April 10. “Wonderful songs, spectacular animation and a heartwarming story, Frozen ranks right up there with Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid in the Disney pantheon.” — Betty Jo Tucker, Reel Talk Movie. Experience Frozen, the hit musical comedy from Walt Disney Animation Studios, like never before in an all-new, full-length sing-along edition. Follow the lyrics with a bouncing snowflake. Join Anna as she sets off on an epic journey, teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and a snowman named Olaf, to find her sister, Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. It’s pure enchantment and full of fun for the whole family. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for hot dogs and snacks. Flashlight tours start at about 7:15 p.m., depending on sundown, and the movie begins about 8 p.m. General admission is $5 and children under 2 are free.
CREATIVE CRAFTS
Dancing in the Wind, Saturday, April 19, from 2-3:30 p.m. Join us for this wonderful art class, Dancing in the Wind, where children will create and take home their very own flowing outdoor sunny garden wind dancer decorated with foam flowers, garden leaves, glittery ribbons and insects. These are classes for children 6-12 years old and limited to 15participants. Cost is $15; includes all materials. This particular class, taught by Yvette Cotera, takes place on the same date as our Earth Day Festival. The current class is at capacity, however we are taking reservations for a possible second class on the same day. To reserve a place, call 305-669-6990.
OTHER MUSIC PERFORMANCES
Alexis Bosch & The Cuban Jazz Project, Havana Jazz Vibe, 8 p.m., Saturday, April 11. The music of Alexis Bosch is one of the most creative sources for the Cuban Jazz movement. The mixture of native rhythms and harmonic influences range from Bill Evans to Emiliano Salvador and have made this formidable musician an indispensable reference for lovers of the genre. Bosch has participated in international jazz festivals in Tokyo and Yokohama, the Oslo Jazz Festival in Norway and Jazz Plaza in Havana. He is a permanent jury of the Havana Jazz International Contest and associate professor of the Havana Art Superior Institute. For tickets, call 877-777- 7677.
SUNDAY CHAMBER SERENADE
Join us on April 12 at 6 p.m. as we conclude our free Sunday Chamber Serenade Series featuring FIU School of Music Student String Chamber Music Ensembles under the direction of Marcia Littley. Several classical quartets will perform and possibly we will get a journey into some classical jazz. Take advantage of beautiful music in the most beautiful botanical setting. Refreshments available for purchase.
