Jazz in July Returns to Hoyt Sherman Place

Jazz in July is set to return to the Hoyt Sherman Place lawn and stage this summer! This FREE program wouldn’t be possible without the help of its premier sponsor, Principal Foundation, additional funding from National Independent Venue Association, as well as expertise from our Jazz in July Arts Advisor John Krantz.

What You Need to Know About Jazz in July 2021

Patrons are encouraged to bring a blanket and lawn chairs to spread out and enjoy the opening sets outside before moving into the theater for the headliner performance. Attendees will be able to purchase local food truck fare, as well as beverages provided by the venue on site. Events will go on, rain or shine.

Please note: All health and safety precautions will be followed in July, per CDC guidelines and Hoyt Sherman Place policies.

Night 1: Tuesday, July 13

6-7 p.m.: Cole Peterson Quintet
7:30-9 p.m. : Amina Figarova Group

Hailing from Azerbaijan, the New York-based Amina Figarova is an internationally influenced — and recognized — composer, pianist and bandleader. Every member of the group stands out as a first-rate individual, but their dedication to Figarova’s eclectic and powerful compositions gives this group its depth of feeling and elite status.

Night 2: Tuesday, July 20

6-7 p.m.: The NOLA Jazz Band
7:30-9 p.m.: Gabriel Espinosa Band featuring Misha Tsiganov, with Molly Lehr, Dave Kobberdahl, Bryan Schumacker, and Tim Crumley

Gabriel Espinosa was born in Merida, Mexico, in 1952. In 1976, Gabriel attended Central College, in Pella, Iowa, where he received a BA in music. After attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass., Gabriel returned to Central College in Pella, Iowa, where he became director of jazz studies. He not only directed the jazz band and taught private music lessons but also started the Vocal Combos music program. In 2004, Gabriel became the director of the Latin American Ensemble at Grinnell College.

Misha Tsiganov, born in St. Petersburg, Russia, is a jazz pianist, composer, arranger and educator.

Night 3: Tuesday, July 27

6-7 p.m.: The Sam Salomone Band
7:30-9 p.m.: The Syndicate featuring Damani Phillips, Curtis Taylor, Dr. William Menefield, Steve Charlson, and Cassius Goens 

Saxophonist, composer, recording artist, educator and author, Damani Phillips, has taught and performed throughout the United States, Europe and South America.

Award-winning trumpeter Curtis Taylor’s lyrical and melodic improvisational style displays a level of maturity far beyond his counterparts. His unique blend of soulfulness, harmonic sensibilities and rhythm melt together for an unforgettable sound that directly connects with the soul of the listener.

Maestro, composer, singer and pianist William Menefield, with his eclectic sound of Jazz, R&B, Soul and Classical, draws the audience in with each note, in every song, at all performances.

Steve Charlson is a professional bassist in Des Moines, IA. He has performed all over the world.

Cassius Goens III, assistant professor of music (jazz drums) at Ball State University, is a highly sought-after musician, clinician and educator in the greater Indianapolis area as well as across the Midwest.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.