Summer sounds visit Highland Park
Photos by Sandra Sellars/Richmond Free Press | 8/10/2023, 6 p.m.
The St. Elizabeth Catholic Church Jazz & Food Festival bills itself as blending traditional and contemporary jazz with great food in a Christian, family-oriented atmosphere.
When celebrating its 13th year last Saturday in the Highland Park community, attendees wasted no time striking a chord and chorus while grooving to local professional jazz musicians, perusing vendors and sampling food and beverages.
Since its inception in 2008, the St. Elizabeth Jazz & Food Festival has served as the sole annual fundraiser for this St. Elizabeth Parish and its various ministries. Most importantly, it helps promote evangelization among St. Elizabeth Catholic Church and Highland Park, according to its organizers.
Images and performers from this year’s event include:
Left, Seshat from Seven Stones Crystals chats with Renee Johnson and Janet Worlds about the wonder of crystals.
Above right, William Fleming III, Alonzo Whitherspoon and Zackery Knight play a friendly game of dominoes while listening to Richmond’s legendary James “Plunky” Branch, above, and James “Saxmo” Gates, right, bring their usual energy and excitement while performing riveting tunes on saxophone.
Corey EL’s fresh perspective to musical styles inspired by the pioneering sounds of soul, funk and hip-hop delights the crowd, including Dawn Wood, who was among the 300 fans who appreciated all of the musicians’ soulful sounds and artistry.
