Detroit Public Library free community music series showcasing local artists begins Tuesday, June 20
Detroit, June 16, 2023 – Detroiters will once again hear and enjoy the artistic talent and beauty of some of the most outstanding musicians from the Motor City this summer as the Detroit Public Library and Comerica Bank present the 21st Annual Java and Jazz music series. The outdoor concert series kicks off Tuesday, June 20 at 6 p.m. on the lawn of the Detroit Public Library Main Library, located at 5201 Woodward Ave.
The summer music series, free of charge to the public, continues every third Tuesday of the month through August (June 20, July 18, and August 15).
“Java and Jazz has become one of the most anticipated summer events in the city for so many of our residents,” said Patricia McCann, Comerica Bank vice president of social impact and national employee volunteer program manager. “The Detroit Public Library’s commitment to serving Detroit and showcasing its culture and arts resonates through Java and Jazz. These evenings are entertaining and bring so much pride as we sit back and listen to the extraordinary music produced by our inspiring local musicians.”
All three outdoor summer concerts begin at 6 p.m. and take place, rain or shine, on the lawn of the Detroit Public Library, located at the corner of Woodward and Kirby in Detroit. Refreshments and seating will be provided. Guests are also welcomed to bring a chair of their own.
"We are honored and grateful to have Comerica Bank as a community partner for the past 21 years," said A.J. Funchess, Detroit Public Library assistant director for marketing and communications. "Throughout our recent tumultuous times, we've continued to work together and pivot as needed to provide our citizens with high-quality musicians and a beautiful environment to enjoy together."
This year’s summer concert schedule includes:
STRAIGHT AHEAD - Tuesday, June 20 at 6 p.m.
Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene, comes the groundbreaking, Grammy-nominated jazz group Straight Ahead. A group of strong, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers.
Widely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music, the Straight Ahead sound ranges comfortably from mainstream jazz, contemporary jazz, Latin and jazzy hip-hop. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy. For more: https://musicwikidetroit.org/index.php?title=Straight_Ahead
ISIS DAMIL - Tuesday, July 18 at 6 p.m.
The Detroit-bred singer and songwriter is known for her fiery, mezzo vocals blend with jazzy R&B melodies to share stories of confidence, sensuality, and spirituality. Her sultry, soulful aura is a culmination of her own development as an artist and woman, and is reflected seamlessly throughout her music.
Coupled with her signature bold animal-inspired style, Isis commands every stage, marking her territory with mesmerizing artistic prowess. Inspired by artists such as Toni Braxton, Beyoncé, and Victoria Monét, Isis makes music that empowers women to untame their inner spirit animals, surrender to their intrinsic intuition, and define their own standards for femininity. For more: https://www.isisdamil.com/
SEAN DOBBINS - Tuesday, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m.
Accomplished musician, band director and drum teacher whose music can best be described as hard-driving, solid rhythm with a refreshing melodic sensibility.
Dobbins sound can best be described as hard-driving, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility. Some of Sean’s influences include Art Blakey, Jeff Hamilton, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Ed Thigpen, Sonny Payne, as well as Detroit area greats Gerald Cleaver and the one and only Elvin Jones.
Known in his community as a musician, band director, drum teacher and positive influence for many, Dobbins currently serves on the on faculty at the University of Michigan, Oakland University and Wayne State University. He has served as the Artistic Director of Jazz Ensembles for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and is currently the Executive/Artistic Director for the Southeastern Music Academy. For more: https://seandobbinsmusic.com/
For more information, visit www.detroitpubliclibrary.org.
