29th Annual STATEN ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL to Hit Snug Harbor This Weekend

The 29th annual Staten Island JAZZ Festival takes place on Saturday, October 15, 2016 from 2PM-7PM at the Historic Music Hall at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Universal Temple of the Arts (UTA) presents its 29th annual celebration featuring performances showcasing the depth and breadth of jazz music, dance, song, art and spoken word. The festival has a reputation for illuminating established Staten Island artists, and this year is no different; this year's featured performers include Hamiet Bluiett, Winard Harper, Danny Mixon, Kiane Zawadi, Leopoldo Fleming Afro-Caribbean Jazz Ensemble, and Betty Shirley.

Performer bios and concert updates can be found on the UTA's website at utasi.org/Eventsjazz2016.html. For more information, see the UTA Staten Island Jazz Festival event page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/events/154196628341664.

Ticket prices range from $25 for adults to $15 for children up to 17 and $20 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased in advance by visiting www.utasi.org or calling 718-273-5610.

Staten Island JAZZ Festival 29 kicks off with FREE jazz-themed arts and cultural workshops that will take place at Snug Harbor from 10:30AM to 1:30 PM. Offerings include an improvisational music (vocal and instrumental), dance, and collage art, based on the work of renowned African-American artist, Romare Bearden. Pre-festival activities will culminate with a panel discussion titled "The History and Future of Jazz."

UTA will recognize several individuals for their varied service across Staten Island communities. This years' honorees include Rob Bailey of the Staten Island Advance, the 369th Veterans Association, and Elizabeth Meaders. Arts Service Awards will be presented to the families of visual artist/fashion designer, Reneata Selima Harris; teacher, jewelry artist and costume designer, Sandra Lawrence; and pianist, Vinnie Ruggieri, all of whom passed away earlier this year.