April is Jazz Appreciation Month, which means you may be looking for a special way to appreciate this quintessential American art form.
If so, be-bop up to the National Civil War Museum for the 3rd annual Taste of Jazz, where you can satisfy your need for great tunes and tastes—and do so for a wonderful cause.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Harrisburg organizes the yearly fundraiser to support its community outreach, specifically the St. Barnabas After-School Program and the Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope. The former focuses on youth-centered ministries, while the latter caters to underserved residents in Uptown Harrisburg and surrounding neighborhoods.
“It’s about commitment to community, relationships with each other and the strengths and gifts that make them better,” said Phyllis Hicks, a member of St. Paul’s and an event organizer. “[The goal] is to reach more people, grow, make more friends, become more diverse and have influences.”
She projects that about 300 guests will join in the festivities.
This year, Latin cuisine and jazz-infused tunes will set the mood. The event features food from countries like Mexico, Honduras, Cuba and Ecuador, as well as the music of Tito Puente, Jr., son of the late, great Tito Puente. Percussionist Puente, Jr. has his own sound, which incorporates an electronic twist. He’ll be joined by regionally known artists Shacara Rogers & Kayla Waters.
This fundraiser has come a long way in a very short time.
“Eight years ago, a group of women from St. Paul’s wanted to help support the community mission of the church, so a ticketed backyard buffet was organized,” said Hicks. “This gathering brought together family and friends from the church for prayer, international tastes and funding for youth missions.”
The outdoor barbecues have since expanded into something much greater. The first traditional jazz celebration took place three years ago at Crawdaddy’s in Harrisburg. This format suited the occasion well, as St. Paul’s promotes multicultural awareness and relationships within and outside of the church, which mirrors the diverse nature of jazz.
Aside from tastes and tunes, the event will feature a silent auction, which will include sports memorabilia, fine jewelry from Higashi Jewelry and contemporary jewelry from Imagination In Glass.
A special perk allows early arrivals to take self-guided tours at 1 p.m., an hour before the event begins. This offers a great way to check out the museum exhibits ahead of time, especially for newcomers.
“It is a spectacular event,” said Christyan Seay, a member of St. Paul’s and the musical coordinator. “When you walk into a community, opportunities can arise. In having a heart for these things, we are present in the community and able to expose people to music and encourage community. We may need to move into an even bigger venue.”
“Taste of Jazz” takes place April 30, 2 to 5 p.m., at the National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Drive, Harrisburg. The cost is $65 per person. For more information, visit www.diocesecpa.org.
Author: Priscilla Morales
