Samantha Fish played at Jazz in June on June 19.
by Ashley Cooks and Richelle Hallows
Grabbing her lawn chair and snacks, Melanie Corder headed out the door and to the Jazz in June festival.
It wasn’t her first time at the festival. She has attended at least five others, saying it has become a tradition.
“After a long day at work, it’s nice to come out here to the relaxing atmosphere to come chill out and listen to people’s talents,” she said. “It’s the highlight of the summer.”
Corder lives in Norman, Okla., where Jazz in June is held. This year, the festival took place June 19-21 and was expected to attract more than 50,000 people.
Jazz in June features a variety of musicians such as Samantha Fish, Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks, and The Edmond Jazz Orchestra. Admission was free because the majority of funding came from grants and donations.
Jazz In June attracted a large crowd to the annual music festival in Norman, Okla.
Corder said she attended the event to be with friends and to see co-worker Cliff Belcher perform. Belcher was the bass player for the Dirty Red & the Soul Shakers band.
Maggie McGuire, 16, also went because all her friends were going. It was McGuire’s first time at Jazz in June even though she lives in Norman.
“I like the performances so far because the songs are very catchy and fun to listen to. It has been a very enjoyable event,” she said. “The best part about the event was just seeing everyone and hanging out with my friends.”
The majority of the audience was from the Norman area.
But Charlotte Womble traveled from southern Oklahoma City. She has been to the festival at least nine times. She attended the event with her friend’s daughter and hoped to attend all three days.
“We always just enjoy the variety and the entertainment. Blues night is typically my favorite,” Womble said. “Tomorrow, we are going to bring first timers because they enjoy jazz, and this is just a really cool venue.”
Jazz in June offered several food options.
Louie’s Bar and Grill sold alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Bartender Tierra Chernicky said it was her first time at the event.
“The best part is seeing all the people and animals just enjoying themselves. I just love it,” Chernicky said. “The festivals been great. I love jazz, so being able to work while listening was just a plus.”
Samantha Fish had everone on their feet with her song “Go to Hell.” A bride-to-be enjoyed herself with her bridemaids on Thurday night at the festival.
