Annual R.K. Downs Jazz Festival returns at COC

This weekend, the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) at College of the Canyons will host more than 200 local musicians during the R.K. Downs Invitational Jazz Festival —providing the ideal venue for local music fans to experience ‘all that jazz.’

After a one-year hiatus in 2009, the annual R.K. Downs Invitational Jazz Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, February 27, on the PAC main stage.

Featuring a collection of the valley’s top high school and college jazz bands, the annual festival serves as prelude to the traditional spring band competition season.

As an added treat, the festival will be highlighted by a special performance from the legendary College of the Canyons Studio Jazz Ensemble big band, directed by COC music director KC Manji.

“This festival, in honor of former COC music instructor RK Downs, is an excellent opportunity for local jazz ensembles to perform for each other and we are happy to have so many fine musicians participating,” said Manji. “I invite the public to stop by and enjoy some well-played big band jazz.”

Admission to the R.K. Downs Invitational Jazz Festival’s entire day of performances is free, with seating coming on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about the R.K. Downs Invitational Jazz Festival please contact KC Manji at (661) 362-5913 or visit the PAC calendar at http://www.canyonspac.com.