Jam sessions jazz up Sundays at Hotel Indigo

The Jazz Club of Sarasota has teamed up with Hotel Indigo to host Sunday Jam Sessions. The non-profit organization encourages musicians and vocalists to come and perform for jazz enthusiasts.

“It gives local musicians a chance to express their talents and they enjoy that,” said Jazz Club Vice President George McLean.

The Jazz Club of Sarasota pays for a core trio of piano players, bass players and drummers and lets other musicians join in. Walk-ins who are interested in playing are put on a roster before playing two to three songs.

“We want musicians of professional quality,” said Jazz Club President Dave Walrath. “We never know who is going to walk through that door.”

The jam sessions started about 12 weeks ago and have since grown in attendance and participation, with 60 to 125 attendees each week.

“I think it’s going to work, and we are excited about it. It’s growing more and more, and the word is getting out,” said McLean.

Although attendance among the older crowd is growing, McLean and Walrath encourage more young people to get involved.

“We need younger people and they like the music; they just don’t have a place to play it,” said Walrath.

Sunday Jam Sessions are held Sundays from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at Hotel Indigo, 1223 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota. The cover charge is $5 and admission is free for performers.