The word, “Jazz,” is a small word but one that encompasses many meanings and can stir much debate. Jazz can refer to Ragtime, Swing, Dixieland, Bebop, Latin Jazz, or many other types of Jazz. No matter what the word means to each one of us, it is undeniably the kind of music best experienced live, performed by skillful musicians and vocalists.

From June 3 – 12, 2011 some of the most highly acclaimed and well-loved Jazz performers will participate in a 10-day celebration of Jazz at the 13th Annual Healdsburg Jazz Festival. Click here to view the full schedule of events and here to view the detailed program.

John Stowell

The opening night of the festival begins with two Grammy nominated Jazz performers at the Raven Theater. Fred Hersch, critically praised for his rhythmic, harmonic, inventive, and masterful piano talent; shares the stage with the exceptionally talented guitarist, Julian Lage.

On Monday, June 6, the Jazz and Wine Dinner takes place at Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen. The “Guitar Trio” consisting of John Stowell, Randy Vincent, and 17-year-old Kai Devitt-Lee. The virtuoso talents of all three musicians are certain to captivate.

On Saturday, June 11, visitors can enjoy Jazz and Wine Tastings at two tasting rooms in downtown Healdsburg. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Topel Winery Tasting Room will host an experience where visitors can indulge their senses in Jazz standards played by the Chris Amberger Quartet while tasting Topel’s soulful wines. Ferrari-Carano’s Seasons of the Vineyard Tasting Bar and Boutique will host an afternoon of Brazilian Jazz from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Ricardo Peixoto Quartet performs samba, bossa nova and more while guests enjoy exquisite Ferrari-Carano wines paired perfectly with tasty bites.

Charlie Haden, photo by Steven Perilloux

The festival ends with an exclusive musical experience with jazz bassist Charlie Haden and pianist Alan Broadbent. The evening’s adventure begins with a screening of “Rambling Boy,” the documentary of the talented Haden who has earned critical acclaim from across the globe including France and Japan to add to his two Grammy Awards. After the screening, the audience will share in a conversation with Haden. Then, Haden and Broadbent will take their places with their instruments and deliver an unforgettable performance.

With multiple days and performances to choose from, this celebration of Jazz is not to be missed. There’s still time to contact Pure Luxury for any of your private chauffeured transportation needs. Whether you need transportation for the Jazz and Wine Dinner, for an afternoon of Jazz and Wine Tasting, or any other event, with our expert chauffeurs behind the wheel, you can enjoy the festival to the fullest.