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  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17, 2002
PR-153-02
www.nyc.gov


MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG HOSTS JVC JAZZ FESTIVAL
KICK-OFF AT GRACIE MANSION


Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today hosted a reception at Gracie Mansion to kick-off the JVC Jazz Festival in New York City. Since 1984, Festival Production, Inc., and JVC, the festival sponsor, has produced the JVC Jazz Festival throughout New York City to bring great music and celebrated artists to New Yorkers and fans from around the world. Deputy Mayors Patricia E. Harris and Dennis Walcott, Special Advisor Kevin Sheekey, Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe, Administration for Children's Services Commissioner William Bell, Assistant Commissioner of Department of Homeless Services Roger Newman, JVC President/CEO Katsuhiko Hattori, President/COO of JVC Harry Elias, and Executive Vice President/CEO of Festival Productions George Wein joined Mayor Bloomberg at the reception.

"I am delighted to be here celebrating the contribution of jazz to New York City," said Mayor Bloomberg. "This festival is an opportunity for us to recognize New York City's important role in the history of jazz."

The two-week festival, which runs from June 16th through June 29th, includes approximately 300 artists performing at more than 30 venues across New York City. Some of the artists for JVC Jazz New York include: Keith Jarrett, Herbie Hancock, Cassandra Wilson, Lauryn Hill, Michael Feinstein, Miriam Makeba, Joao Gilberto, and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band.

JVC is a leading manufacturer of home-entertainment products. For the past 18 years, JVC has made in-kind donations to the Mayor's Office to be shared with City agencies that may benefit from their products. This year, JVC will be donating electronic equipment to the Administration for Children's Services and the Department of Homeless Services.

The reception, which was broadcast live on WBGO 88.3 FM radio, included a performance by Mickey Bass' New York Powerhouse Ensemble with John Hicks, Abraham Burton, Eric Allen and Antonio Hart. For concert information visit the JVC Jazz Festival website at www.festivalproductions.net or call (212) 501-1390.

 

www.nyc.gov

Contact: Ed Skyler / Megan Sheekey
(212) 788-2958
Carolyn McClair (Festival Production)
(212) 721-3341