The Village Jazz Series returns in 2009! Yuma Palms Regional Center will host the Thursday evening series for its third year beginning January 15 at the Village area of Yuma Palms.

Organized by yumajazz, the free concert series consists of 11 events, 6 to 8 pm on Thursday evenings, January 15 through March 26. The series is sponsored by The Sun, and Yuma Palms. Groups performing will range in size from trio to Big Band, and come from Yuma, Phoenix, and California.

The Village, located in front of Harkins Theaters and surrounded by shops and eateries, is modelled after a charming downtown gathering place. The venue's inviting mood is enhanced with grass, water features, and palm trees. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating (lawn chairs, blankets) for the concerts, and to enjoy the food and drinks available from Village vendors. And don't forget shopping - area merchants also offer 'Jazz Night Specials'.

2009 Village Jazz Series Schedule

January 15 - Yuma Jazz Company Premier local quintet opens the series with straight ahead, Latin, and contemporary jazz, plus original music. Steven Hennig, trumpet, Brian Carlson, saxes, Carl Posch, guitar, Jon Knudtson, bass, Brandon Coz, drums

January 22 - Yuma Big Band
Great music from the big band era - brought to life by the big, stylish Yuma Big Band. Hear the memorable music of Miller, Dorsey, Ellington - all the big names (and big sounds!).

January 29 Rob Thorsen Trio
Renowned bassist Rob Thorsen has performed with a who's who list of jazz greats, and recorded 3 critically acclaimed CD's as a leader. The most in-demand bassist in San Diego, Rob loves to get out & play with his own small group.

February 5 - High School Jazz Band Night
The jazz ensembles of Cibola, KOFA, and Gila Ridge high schools split an evening of great music. Come hear the energy & excitement - youth has its advantages!

February 12 - ASU Jazz Ensemble
The Arizona State University Jazz Ensemble will blow you away with its combination of power and finesse. A rare opportunity to hear this exceptional band outside Tempe!

February 19 - Yuma Jazz Company's Latin Jazz Eruption!
Sambas, Bossas, Afro-Cuban . . . Latin jazz excitement fills the Village when the YJC Quintet turns loose its annual 'Latin Jazz Eruption'!

February 26 - AWC and Yuma High
Two dynamic groups, Arizona Western College Jazz II and Yuma High School's jazz ensemble share this evening of lively big band excitement.

March 5 - Standing Room Only
Back for its third year, this 7 piece jazz / rock / funk group from El Centro, CA plays great and is always a crowd favorite. They'll make you want to dance!

March 12 - Yuma Jazz Company
The popular local jazz quintet plays original tunes as well as 'crowd favorite' standards from its public performances.

March 19 - Pete Pancrazi Trio
Phoenix's highly regarded jazz guitarist and singer Pete Pancrazi brings his critically acclaimed stylings to Yuma. Pete's warm vocals and dazzling technique are not to be missed.

March 26 - U of A Studio Jazz Ensemble
The University of Arizona's top group performs at the Yuma Palms Village. This truly exceptional band does not travel much - but it is coming to Yuma! Don’t miss as the U of A closes the series on a high (and big & loud) note.