ASPEN — Jazz Aspen Snowmass, otherwise known as JAS, has evolved from a simple 3-day event into a multi-day festival throughout the year bringing artists to the JAS cafe at the Little Nell, and producing the Sonoma Jazz Festival in California. JAS comprises events such as the June Experience and the Labor Day Experience, which is coming up early this September.   

Not only is JAS recognized for its impeccable hospitality, but it also hosts a variety of artists which appeal to the masses. Its mission is not to make profit, but to preserve and present jazz and related music through entertainment and educational programs. Since 1996, JAS has been a non-profit organization and has donated over $6 million to music education in the Roaring Fork Valley.

This year more than 10,000 people are expected to join together in this dance oriented, open air extravaganza of rock, funk, and soul music. Taking place in the Snowmass Town Park, the Elk Mountain Range serves as a beautiful backdrop.

2015 performances rated high, but this year is supposed to be even better according to freshman Quinn Langley. He says he looks forward to all of the well known artists that will be in attendance. Artists such as the legendary Stevie Wonder, Train, Andy Grammer, and Duran Duran will be there. A few songs that are expected to be played would be Superstition and Part-Time Lover by Stevie Wonder, Is There Something I Should Know by Duran Duran, Drops of Jupiter by Train, and Honey, I’m Good by Andy Grammer.

This year’s Jazz Aspen Snowmass looks to deliver a great medley of acts, which will undoubtedly draw a variety of fans.