Jazz on the River performs on the river

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

The Charles City Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble wrapped up their performing season with Jazz on the River on Saturday, May 10.

For the first time in three years, Jazz on the River actually took place on the river, having been rained out on the last two events.

But while the sun was shining at the Memorial Park amphitheater, there were still technical difficulties to overcome. Band director Jake Gassman found out early Saturday that the park didn’t have power, and thanked Parks Director Tyler Mitchell and his crew for the swift work they did to make sure the concert could go on as scheduled.

“They put a lot of work into making sure we had a nice venue,” said Gassman.

With nice weather, working utilities and an attentive audience, the middle school and high school jazz bands performed some of their favorite selections from the year, recognizing their senior members who are soon to graduate.