On warm evenings beginning in May, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art becomes one of the city’s most inviting stages. Now in its 36th summer season, Jazz at LACMA returns, bringing together a rotating lineup of acclaimed musicians and rising talents for free, open-air performances in the heart of Los Angeles. Seating for the program is available in the museum’s welcome plaza on a first-come, first-served basis, though you’re welcome to picnic on the grass, too (you won’t really be able to see the show, but you’ll still hear it). As the sun dips behind the Urban Light installation and the crowd settles onto blankets and low chairs, the series captures a distinctly local rhythm. Jazz at LACMA art cultural ritual, part neighborhood gathering, and entirely emblematic of the city’s enduring love affair with live music under the sky. Expect it to draw an even bigger crowd this year, thanks to the newly opened David Geffen Galleries. So get there early before showtime at 6pm, grab a seat (unless you plan to dance), a glass of wine, and settle in to a wonderful and warm night of live jazz that stretches well past sunset.

Read more…