Walking KC: 18th and Vine Jazz District – Charlie Parker Celebration

The 18th and Vine Jazz District is one of Kansas City’s most historic neighborhoods and the cradle of local jazz history. The area recently underwent revitalization and now features a modern jazz museum where you can learn about all the jazz greats connected to Kansas City. It features a well-known jazz club, The Blue Room, famous for its Monday night jam sessions. All musicians are welcome to come play and learn from other area jazz musicians.

Every August since 2014, the local jazz community comes together to pay tribute to Kansas City’s best-known jazz legend, saxophonist Charlie Parker. Born in Kansas City, Kansas on August 29, 1920, Parker went on to become an internationally acclaimed composer and band leader.

This two-week-long celebration hosts nightly live shows at venues around town, a jazz boot camp for children, a musical salute, and a panelist talk featuring distinguished local female jazz singers. The tour of the 18th and Vine jazz district is taking place this year on Saturday, August 26, from 10-12 am. You can find all details and all events for 2023 here. Take a walk in this distinctive Kansas City landmark to learn about our amazing jazz heritage and its influence on the rest of the jazz world.

Sources:

https://aahtkc.org/18thandvine https://spotlightcharlieparker.org/https://www.americanjazzmuseum.org/

Resources: