Jazz Society celebrates 27 years

The Hot Springs Jazz Society celebrated its 27th anniversary on Sunday with its annual general meeting, featuring a potluck dinner and birthday party.

Current and prospective members gathered at the Forest Lakes Club House to enjoy the local talent of its members and discuss the organization's plan for the coming year.

For 27 years, the Jazz Society has been dedicated to bringing exceptional jazz music to the Hot Springs community. Throughout the year, it hosts events and festivals and sponsors live jazz events across town. Its most notable event is the Hot Spring Jazz Festival held at the end of each summer.

"This year we are tapping into the talented pool of musicians who are already a part of the Jazz Society for the entertainment at the event. It's a bit of a jazz jam," said Gretchen Taylor, executive director.

Eleven different musicians from the organization performed during the event. Some strictly sang, while others picked up the nearest jazz instrument and let their fingers do the talking.

The event's theme was Mardi Gras, which will be the theme for the upcoming Mardi Gras costume ball and contest on Feb. 10 sponsored by the Jazz Society. Taylor said they like to familiarize members with the theme for the ball, so they make it the same.

The event also served as an opportunity to present the newly elected board of directors to the members and gave them a chance to address the plans underway for this year's events.

Funds collected from guest ticket sales went back into the Jazz Society to help cover the cost of the event. Members were encouraged to bring guests who were possibly interested in joining the organization.

"We are fortunate to have many talented musicians within our ranks but not everyone who is a member is a musician. We have several members who just love jazz music," Taylor said.

Members of the Jazz Society enjoy access to the annual meeting and birthday party, discounted tickets to events hosted by the Jazz Society and the opportunity to present, promote and perpetuate jazz music within the community. It costs $35 for an individual to join and $50 for a couple.

Local on 01/22/2018

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