If you're a jazz fan, Moscow ID has a treat that you really should indulge in at least once, the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. I know - Idaho. Not where you would expect to find a hotbed of jazz. but there is a long jazz tradition
The University of Idaho sponsors the Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival every year. The Festival is a major regional highlight. Imagine an environment that has world class jazz musicians sharing the stage with elementary, junior high and high school students.
I've had several childern participate in the competition. The level of commitment that even the youngest bands bring is impressive. Some of the talent that appears among the high schoolers is just awe-inspiring.
But it isn't just a kid's festival. It would be wonderful if it were - but the Festival also attracts the best in the world. It takes a special event to pull in a Bobby McFerrin or any of a dozen other performers that will be in Moscow in a couple of weeks.
The emphasis this year is Latin Jazz. I have to admit, I am not a big jazz fan with one exception. I love latin Jazz - a holdover from a trip to New York 2 decades ago. I missed it last year (no kids in the band) but have already picked up tickets for the shows this time around. The Festival is from 2/25-2/28. For anybody interested in jazz, this is a "you'll regret it if you miss it" type of event.
Stick it on your bucket list.
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