Playing high-energy traditional jazz, the Grizzlyland Dixie Band is next up for “Sundays @ Six,” a series of free concerts in Alamosa’s Cole Park, presented by the Alamosa Live Music Association (ALMA) this Sun., July 1 at 6pm.
In fall 2011 some Adams State music students, who simply wanted to play more jazz, got together to start the Grizzly Land Dixie Band. The group then became a chamber ensemble led by student director Matthew Ortega and advised by Professor James Doyle in Jan. 2012.
The GLDB has given performances for local charity events, college and university events, and outreach concerts at local schools. One of the purposes of the shows is to promote knowledge and love of the Dixieland style. Originating in New Orleans, Dixieland borrows influences from many genres including gospel, blues, marches, and folk music.
The Grizzlyland Dixie Band plays for more than simply listening pleasure. They are exciting and never stale as their music is filled with improvisation, parading, and emotion. The band includes Adams State music students and alumni.
Blues harmonica wizard John Carey brings his band for Sundays at Six on Sun., July 8, at 6pm, and Don Richmond leads a group of musicians on Sun., July 15 at 6pm, both in Cole Park.
