Jazz in June kicks off June 6 with Alexis Arai y Su Grupo Latino

Jazz in June, Lincoln’s longest-running outdoor concert series, returns for its 32nd season June 6.

The 2023 season features a diverse lineup of talented musicians — Alexis Arai y Su Grupo Latino, the Angela Hagenbach Quintet, the Metro Jazz Quintet, and Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience.

The free public concerts begin at 7 p.m. each Tuesday in June in the Sheldon Sculpture Garden, west of Sheldon Museum of Art. A market offers food and drinks from 5 to 9 p.m. each Tuesday. The concert series is produced by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with support from the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

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The lineup:

• June 6: Alexis Arai y Su Grupo Latino — Arai is a true gem in today’s music industry, showcasing exceptional talent as a vocalist. Her four-octave range and dynamic style allow her to effortlessly transition from the sultry notes of jazz to the upbeat rhythms of pop, leaving audiences captivated by her versatility.

• June 13: Angela Hagenbach Quintet — A Jazz in June favorite, Hagenbach is a fashion model-turned-jazz singer whose voice has been described as a mocha-rich contralto with razor-sharp intonation. She sings everything from swinging, straight-ahead jazz standards, blues and original compositions to sensual Latin jazz.

• June 20: Metro Jazz Quintet — This Nebraska group will offer classic jazz tunes from composers such as Duke Ellington, George Gershwin and Cole Porter. The quintet is made up of some of the top jazz artists in the state and was named the Lied Center’s Jazz Club Artist.

• June 27: Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience — The series closes with two-time Grammy winner Simien and The Zydeco Experience. Simien has become one of the most respected and accomplished artists in American roots music today. He and his bandmates have performed more than 7,000 concerts in more than 45 countries in their careers.

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Each concert features two sets of music from 7-7:45 p.m. and 8-8:45 p.m., respectively, with a 15-minute intermission.

Bike Valet will provide free, secure parking for bicycles from 5 p.m. until an hour after each concert at the east end of the market. For more information, click here or call the Outdoor Adventures Center at 402-472-4777.

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. While the performances are free, attendees are encouraged to make a minimum donation of $10 per family to help ensure the future of the program. Alcohol and pets are not permitted.

Individuals or organizations who would like to make financial contributions and/or serve as volunteers or board members are encouraged to contact Jazz in June at jazzinjune@unl.edu.

Reserved seating is available via the Lied Center’s website for $80 for all four concerts or $25 per show.

Learn more.

Courtesy | James Dean