With the continual announcements regarding jazz societies and festivals shutting down, it would appear that the good ship TradJazz is sailing in turbulent waters. But there are signs that calmer seas and brighter skies lie ahead, provided a competent navigator is steering the good ship on the right course.
The lights have been turned off for festivals in Olympia, Washington, and Medford, Oregon, but new events are in the offing or being planned. The folks in Seaside, Oregon, are taking a year off to assess their needs. Progress is being made in setting up a new jazz society in Sacramento, and the hotel situation in San Diego has stabilized to end unsettling rumors. And finally, a stride piano player decided to enter the cruise and tour business, thereby providing more exposure for the music as well as work for musicians.
29-Year Run Ends in Medford
Confronted with a $50,000 deficit after losing its three biggest corporate sponsors, the folks in charge of the Southern Oregon Music Festival decided to give up its non-profit status, thus ending the 29-year run of the annual event held in Medford, the state’s fourth largest metropolitan area.
Longtime Board member Dennis Ramsden is quoted as saying, “It’s been a great show, and we’re walking away with our heads held high.” He went to explain that half of the Festival’s $200,000 budget came from donors, and the other ha
