A nonprofit jazz-education and performance center on Roosevelt Row held a ribbon-cutting ceremony during the venue’s weekly jam session in anticipation of its grand-opening concert.
While the Nash has been open since May, the ribbon cutting during intermission and Wednesday’s concert mark the beginning of its full schedule of events, ranging from educational workshops to performances by famous musicians.
“Jazz is a creative watershed right now; all you have do is open your ears and you will know that this is not the museum of music,” said Doug Mayes, vice president of nonprofit Jazz in Arizona. “This is as vibrant and vital as any music will ever be. And it’s happening right here in this room, at this moment.”
Joel Goldenthal, executive director of Jazz in Arizona and the Nash, introduced Lewis Nash, the venue’s namesake, to cut the ribbon.
“His name is on the building because of what he’s brought to music — what he’s brought to jazz education,” Goldenthal said. “He’s a model for the next generation.”
Lewis Nash, who was named “jazz’s most valuable player” by Modern Drummer magazine, took the stage and spoke to the audience before giving an impromptu performance on the drums.
“I want to make sure you’re all aware of how close to my heart this is — this whole idea and creating this space,” Nash said. “And how much it means to me to be honored — to be the namesake for such an undertaking.”
Phoenix Vice Mayor Michael Johnson, a music activist, spoke to the importance of music.
“Music is what unites us all,” Johnson said. “Music is what speaks to us, no matter what language.”
Johnson explained to the audience why it is important to have a venue like the Nash in the middle of the arts district and expressed his beliefs that jazz will always be important to society.
“We have the number-one spot for jazz in America, right here in downtown Phoenix,” Johnson said.
The grand-opening concert is Wednesday at the Nash, 110 E. Roosevelt St. in Phoenix, with performances at both 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. The concert will feature drummer Nash, Houston Person on tenor saxophone, Russell Malone on guitar, Cedar Walton on piano and Christian McBride on bass.
General admission is $40 or $25 with a student ID. A front-row sponsor table that seats four is available for $400 and 12 premium hi-top seats are available for $75.
Contact the reporter at jasmine.barta@asu.edu
