Travel adds variety to the everyday life; it gets you out of the same old, same old routine.  Here is a nice little combo pack that can add both to your adventures.  I just found out about a new jazz festival that is worth your travel to a place I love; The Pacific Northwest.  Edmonds, Washington to be exact.  Get away from the crowded venues of the big city and yet still feel the excitement of live music and anticipation in the air as you enter the beautiful auditorium and take your plush seats within the Edmonds Center for the Arts.

The festival is The Frank Demiero Jazz Festival.  It will take place again this same time next year.  The story is inspirational because of the man, Frank Demiero, and all he contributes to life around him with the joy that music brings.  Frank pioneered the philosophy that all student participants are winners by virtue of their participating, and by their willingness to showcase their passion for music.  The teaching part of this festival brings student musicians together with seasoned pros to learn and soak up the vibe of living your passion for music as your career.  Extraordinary - and well worth supporting.

Ask his peers, and they'll tell you that Frank is the reason vocal jazz is alive today in America's schools. Ask the performers that he's worked with - Bob Hope, Bill Cosby, Bobby McFerrin, Carmen McRae, Dianne Reeves, Joe Williams, Take 6, the Hi-Los, the New York Voices, the Four Freshmen, and Mark Murphy, just to name a few - and they'll tell you that his choirs are some of the finest in the world. Ask his former students, and they'll attribute their personal and professional successes to his tutelage. Ask his current students, and they'll tell you that there is something magical about how he creates a sense of family in his ensembles. Ask his kids and grandchildren, and they'll tell you that there's no one more loving or caring in their lives.

The festival benefits music students, stabilizes, enriches and brings joy to the community and to all who attend.  And the evening jazz acts are phenomenal.  On the night I attended, Sara Gazarek glided out onto the stage in an angelic dress; the gold threads caught the light, and her beautiful and upbeat voice caught the attention of all.  Then, John Pizzarelli and his jazz quartet wowed the crowd with his quick and fascinating vocals, guitar, and wit.  His choices of songs kept you ready to hear what’s next, from moving inspiring lyrics, to songs and comments from John that had the whole house laughing.

Support the arts and sneak away to support your spirit.  Check out the Frank Demiero Jazz Festival at www.frankdemierojazzfestival.com   Make your plans for next year to come to a quiet town outside of big city life and lift your spirit with music.