Calgary shows support for Jazz with a Dixieland Parade

A lot of not-so-good things have come out of the last minute cancellation of this year's Calgary Jazz Festival; infighting amongst the current and previous board members, upset ticket holders, typical comments from those who don't live in Calgary about our "lack of culture" and several musicians who will not be able to perform.

But there have also been a great show of support by local musicians and venues (see a full list of shows still taking place) to make the best of a bad situation.

Today I received a brief e-mail from Cindy McCleod at Jazzelements.com that simply said:

Let's lend our voices to celebrating what's right with jazz in Calgary - our incredible pool of talent, fans who've remained loyal through thick and thin, venues who are presenting many of the shows that were cancelled,and  media who've consistently spread the message. Bring your instruments and voices join the jazz parade tomorrow, start at 4pm at Olympic Plaza & making it's way to Beat Niq, "Dixie" style.

JAZZ LIVES!

I also see that local CBC Radio 2 host and crooner Tim Tamashiro linked to a facebook page for the event via his twitter feed @TimTamashiro.

I for one fully support the Calgary Jazz community's decision to take the cancellation in stride and realize that it is the chance for them, music lovers and all Calgarians who are proud of the wide range of cultural activities in our city to get out and show their support.

I strongly encourage anyone who can to make it down to Olympic Plaza tomorrow afternoon. I mean how often do you get to take part in a "Dixie"- style parade? I plan to be there, no instrument — sadly my tormbone playing high school days are far behind me — to show my support for the arts in Calgary.