The Fred Morgan Big Band is among ensembles performing for a free Jazz Ensemble Festival in Tim’s Music Store auditorium, May 2.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) – Jazz fans are invited to five free concerts at Tim’s Music Store auditorium on Saturday, May 2.

The Jazz Ensemble Festival event is a spin-off from the Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Festival that annually fills Carmichael Park in summer.

“This year, we had more bands apply for our June 6 and 7 festival than we could accommodate,” said organizer Grant Parker. “So, we decided to give jazz groups their own date. We hope to make this festival an annual event.”

With around 17 members per band, ensembles will each take 45-minute sets. Audience seating will be provided; admission is free. Parker will host the gathering.

“The room is carpeted, so there’s no dancing surface,” said Parker. “However, we won’t get cross if people are inspired to get up and dance. We want everyone to have a good time.”

Sets begin at 11 a.m. and continue with downbeats on the hour until 4 pm.

Contributing bands include The Swing Collective; Moonlight Swing; Fred Morgan Big Band; SwingMasters Big Band; Cap. City Jazz Knights.

For more information on the Jazz Ensemble Festival, call 916-925-9160.

Tim’s Music Store is event sponsor.  The store – and free parking – is located at 6818 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael.

The Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Festival will span the weekend of June 6 and 7 in Carmichael Park.