COM M U N I T Y
Jazz in June
Local nonprofit revives live jazz and blues for the community
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orman’s famed Jazz in June returns for its best year yet, beginning Thursday, June 16 and running through Saturday, June 18. The 3-day festival will feature world-renowned artists and musicians, marking its 39th year serving the Norman community. Attendees can expect to see all live performances in Andrews Park, with access to some of Norman’s best food trucks and breweries in the area. “We think people will enjoy three nights rather than one at Andrews Park, picnicking on the grass under the trees,” shared Norman Hammon, executive director of Jazz in June. “Expect to sit back, relax and have a great evening.” Previously shared between Andrews Park and Brookhaven, this year’s festival will solely reside in Andrew’s Park, often referred to as the “heart of Norman.” A break in tradition was necessary to meet the growing festival’s needs. “We like to think of Jazz in June as a gift of love each year, not only to the city of Norman but to the 40% of our audience that comes from elsewhere,” Harmon said. Another featured treat at this year’s festival will be a pilot program partnership with 405 Brewing. “We will have a special summer brew that reflects the festival’s vibe. It will also be released at local liquor stores and grocery stores this June,” explained Kate Bierman, president of the board for Jazz in June.
20 | June 2022
The special release of this unique brew will be a test run for next year’s 40th celebration. Visitors are encouraged to submit feedback as the festival prepares for next year’s events. Concert-goers can also expect to see a beer garden this year, with a variety of vendors available. “We are so thankful to the city of Norman and the community for being so receptive of the changes made to our long-running festival,” said Bierman. “We are looking forward to working with the city and area breweries and vendors to make future years of the festivals at Andrews Park just as wonderful.” All concerts are professionally recorded with permission, post-produced by Gossett Productions, and shared by KGOU Radio on holidays such as the 4th of July, reaching an estimated 97,000 people. Additionally, it’s offered to National Public Radio at no cost, extending its reach even further. “We took advantage of a collaboration project grant,” Harmon explained. “We wanted to reach people who couldn’t physically come to the event and also to support public radio. It has turned out to be wonderful. Even when in-person numbers went down during the pandemic, radio numbers were strong.” “Jazz in June has a multitude of positive effects not the least of which is the incredible talent and variety of jazz and blues that we bring to Norman,” continued
