Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Alaska Airlines has agreed to a multiyear title sponsorship of the Portland Jazz Festival, providing the financial support necessary to revive the festival that had announced in early September that it was ceasing operations after five years. The support ensures that the 6th Annual Alaska Airlines Portland Jazz Festival will take place, as scheduled, February 13-22, 2009. The festival will be dedicated to the 70th anniversary of Blue Note Records.
Founded by Smith and artistic director Bill Royston in 2003, the Portland Jazz Festival has become one of the country’s top jazz showcases, attracting musicians and visitors from around the world. The 2008 Festival featured 150 separate events over 10 days, attracting an estimated 36,000 patrons.
“Portland is a great jazz town and there was no way we were going to let this festival go without exhausting every means,” said Portland City commissioner and support committee leader Nick Fish. “The commitment made by Alaska Airlines is a remarkable gift for jazz lovers. Their support, and that of several area businesses and individuals like Sho Dozono, allows us to continue to grow a festival that attracts some of the world’s top jazz talent and attracts thousands of visitors to Portland every year.”
More info: pdxjazz.com
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
Jul 8, 2025 7:30 AM
At 56, Rodney Whitaker, professor of jazz bass and director of jazz studies at Michigan State University, is equally…
Jul 17, 2025 11:35 AM
The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
