The 10th Annual NJW Annual Jazz Party & Fundraiser is just 3 weeks away. Have you gotten your tickets yet? (hint: you can get them now at 242-5299 or online at TicketsNashville!). The event takes place Sunday, September 26, 4-8 pm.

We want to let you know what's happening with the event:

The Party -- We call it the "Jazz Party of the Year" because it's a chance for the entire NJW community to come together, along with new friends, former students, and many others. If the Jazz Cave would hold 400 people, we'd have the party there, but it's just too small. However, the vibe is just as warm and friendly.

The Food -- We're delighted that the food this year will again be provided by Germantown's own Monell's Restaurant. You know it will be delicious! The Limelight will have a cash bar with all your favorite beverages

The Venue -- Limelight is the home of our Fall Fundraiser for the second straight year. Owner Kenny Winchell is donating this amazing space because he supports the cause of keeping great jazz going in Nashville -- we love you, Kenny! Last year's party there was great, with the food, auction, and music in one room -- you won't have to miss a thing!!

Our media sponsors again this year are WMOT and Nashville Lifestyles. Visit Nashville Lifestyles website to enter a drawing for a pair of Fundraiser tickets

What to say about WMOT? They've been our partners from the beginning, and are the heartbeat of jazz in our community. Program Director Greg Lee will be the emcee for the event.

The Jazz -- We've got a great lineup of music this year:

Lori Mechem & Ritmos Picantes will kick things off with one of their rare live appearances. You'll be treated to some tasty Brazilian classics and originals. Lori has been busy writing for the band, and her new tunes are fabulous! Ritmos includes Lori, Roger Spencer (bass), Denis Solee (sax, flute, & clarinet), Dann Sherrill (percussion), Pete Huttlinger (guitar), and Chris Brown (drums).

It wouldn't be a great jazz party without an All-Star Ensemble of NJW's finest! Duffy Jackson, John Birdsong, Rod McGaha, Rahsaan Barber, Bruce Dudley, and Don Aliquo will be bringing their A-game to make this a swinging evening.

Annie Sellick needs no introduction to Nashville audiences. She's one of the city's most beloved jazz vocalists. A local appearance by Annie is rare now, as she's often out touring the country and the world. She's been with the Jazz Workshop since the very beginning, and it's fitting for her to provide the grand finale to this, our 10th Annual Jazz Party. She'll be joined by Pat Bergeson (guitar), Joe Davidian (piano), Jim Ferguson (bass), and Marcus Finnie (drums).

You can see video clips of Ritmos Picantes and Annie Sellick on NJW's YouTube channel (Duffy Jackson clips coming soon). Check them out and see what's in store!

The Auction -- next week we'll have a preview of some of the fabulous live and silent auction items -- stay tuned!