Celebrate the ‘Joyful Women of Jazz’ at the UTA Staten Island JAZZ Festival
Written by Carol Ann Benanti
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Universal Temple of the Arts (UTA) will play host to the 36th Annual Staten Island Jazz Festival, a celebration of the contributions of women to the world of jazz.
This year’s festival titled “Joyful Women of Jazz,” will be a tribute to the trailblazing women who have shaped the art form.
The date to set aside is Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. at the St. George Theatre, with featured artists like Camille Thurman with the Darrell Green Quartet, an acclaimed saxophonist and vocalist.
Also on tap will be Brandee Younger, a harpist. Olatuja, a vocalist, will blend jazz, blues, gospel.
And Lakeisha Benjamin, a Grammy-nominated saxophonist.
Honoring a Legacy of Excellence
This year’s festival pays tribute to Sajda Musawwir Ladner, the founder of UTA and the Staten Island Jazz Festival, as well as to two women who have made significant contributions to the world of jazz.
The late Sajda Musawwir Ladner, was the founder and director of the Universal Temple of the Arts. (Courtesy/Al Lambert)Staten Island Advance
Tracy Hyter-Suffern, executive director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, is being recognized at the event, as will Robin Bell-Stevens, director and executive producer of Jazzmobile Inc.
Laurie Cumbo, the New York City commissioner of Cultural Affairs, noted:
“For 36 years, Universal Temple of the Arts’ annual JAZZ Festival has been a must-see celebration of music, art, and community that has brought New Yorkers together and contributed to a more culturally and economically vibrant Staten Island. This year’s JAZZ Festival promises to be another extraordinary gathering, full of music and joy and creative energy that pays powerful tribute to Sajda Musawwir Ladner’s spirit and legacy.”
