Newburgh - Alonzo Coombs could not have looked more content than he did on Thursday night.
Reclined in a lounge chair, Coombs had his feet elevated, a drink in one hand, snack in the other, the Waterfront behind him and a quintet of musicians playing African music in front of him. The image was a common one that could be spotted all over Newburgh’s Waterfront Landing, as the fourth annual Newburgh Jazz Series commenced. Hundreds came out on an idyllic summer evening to revel in an event not only popular for its musical melodies, but ability to connect community.
"This is just a great Series with such an eclectic assortment of music," said Coombs, as he watched the musicians on ‘center stage.’ "It’s something that keeps Newburgh on the map because it offers a great setting with water in the background and people from all over." After commenting on what an amazing force the Series’ creator, Aquanetta Wright (The Ferry Godmother) was, Coombs continued, "She (Aquanetta) is able to get great musicians from all over, such a great variety, including jazz one night, Pop another and then Big Bands on still another; where else around here can you find that?"
That mixture will continue for the next eight weeks, as an entourage of musicians are slated to perform each Wednesday and Thursday night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. all through the months of July and August.
Thursday it included two African-rooted performances. First up was the Chiku Awali African Dancers and Drummers. The group’s "Opening Ceremony" offered multiple dance routines, including participants of all ages. At times, onlookers jumped in, spontaneously attempting to mimic the dancers’ moves. The result was more audience participation in the form of clapping, singing and smiling.
The second hour featured the Abdoulaye Alhassane Toure. Composed of five people, the group played an ensemble of instruments, such as; saxophone, violin, three types of guitars, a Calabash and African Harp (Kora.) The group’s leader, Abdoulaye Alhassane, formerly of Beacon, could not wait to make his Newburgh Jazz Series debut.
"I’m very excited to see the community all come together and share my music from Africa- Sahara, Niger and Mali," said Alhassane, clad in a blue basin (long African robe.) "It’s just so beautiful to be able to do that, singing about humanity and compassion.
The Toure met with an immediate warm reception. Once they began tuning up, audience members were already clapping and screams of "Come on Baby" and "Yea, that’s it, now you’re feeling it," could be heard as several in the audience closed their eyes and swayed to the catchy beat. As the playing progressed, the approval increased.
Music was not the only venue receiving positive feedback. About eight local vendors were also busy throughout the night. Offering food, jewelry, crafts and other items, the vendors have become an increasingly popular mainstay at each Series. Caroline Doderer of Hudson Harmony has been selling her handcrafted, all natural bath and body products as well as jewelry at the Series since midway through its first year.
"As soon as I heard that Aquanetta was doing a Jazz Series on the Hudson, I knew I had to be here, especially since we both shared the ‘Hudson’ title," said Doderer, who is assisted by her mother. "We really like being a part of the Newburgh Renaissance, especially having had gone to its schools; I want to be a part of seeing it change for the better."
One of Newburgh’s own, Neil Alexander, a jazz pianist and synthesizer, will join the Reese Project on Wednesday, July 7th. Set to play at his fourth Newburgh Jazz Series, Alexander never gets tired of its unique ambience.
"I really love bringing live music to my community," said Alexander as he appreciated the music of Thursday’s opening night. He was flanked by the Ferry Godmother, sporting a formal gown, high heels and of course a wand. Moments earlier, Newburgh’s community organizer and leading socialite addressed the large crowd.
"I want to thank everyone who has come out tonight," said Wright, who went on to acknowledge her sponsors. "All the energy that goes into this is about helping and supporting the people of the City of Newburgh."
Summer is here, so grab a blanket or a chair and head down to Newburgh’s Waterfront on Wednesday or Thursday night. Listen to some great music, take in some picturesque views, bond with the community and make some lasting memories.
