The culture of a city is often defined by the sounds of the community.
In Panama City, Florida the Gulf Jazz Society is committed to supporting the vitality and charm of the city by bringing nationally acclaimed jazz musicians to perform throughout the year. Held at Oaks by the Bay Park in the heart of one of the city’s most popular historic districts, the annual Jazz By the Bay Festival welcomes thousands to a family-friendly, free weekend of jazz. Jennifer Vigil, of Destination Panama City says, “A large part of the energy and enthusiasm of this community can be attributed to the accomplishments of the Gulf Jazz Society. They have single handedly infused the community with an appreciation for jazz and people from around the country come here just to experience it for a weekend.” In addition

to the annual festival, the Gulf Jazz Society hosts monthly ticketed events at Alice’s on Bayview to support their philanthropic educational efforts in the local school district. Monthly ticketed events for January, February, and March are held at Alice’s on Bayview in the historic St. Andrews neighborhood. Read on for detailed information on each event.

On January 28, 2020, Mike Levine, a nationally and internationally recognized jazz and Latin pianist will bring his energetic music to historic St. Andrews. Mike’s wide range of talents have led him to collaboration with acclaimed musicians such as Pat Metheny, Michael Bolton, Hiram Bullock, and Ed Calle, touring and performing at famous jazz clubs all over the country, chart topping compositions and recordings, and a grammy nomination for his role as producer. Let the relaxed confidence of Mike Levine’s piano playing inspire you and draw you in at this upcoming event. Space is limited. Make your plans to attend, and reserve your tickets.

On February 10, 2020, Gene Bertoncini is known for his soothing jazz guitar infused with a nod to classical. A New York City native raised in a musical family, Gene began performing on television with his guitar in his teen years. Following his graduation from the University of Notre Dame, he honed his jazz skills while immersed in the Chicago jazz scene and developed a career that included playing with music greats like Benny Goodman, Paul Desmond, Tony Bennet, and bassist Michael Moore to name a few. Later in his career, Gene made appearances in television show orchestras, including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Carson, and served on faculty at several prestigious universities and fine arts schools. Gene’s live music is sure to connect with your soul at this outstanding event. Space is limited. Make your plans to attend, and reserve your tickets.

On March 1, 2020, The Bailsmen, a group hailed as “New York’s busiest jazz band”, will awaken your senses with original and adapted instrumental and vocal gypsy jazz and vintage swing favorites. Inspired by the likes of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, The Bailsmen flawlessly blend the sounds of acoustic guitars, saxophones, clarinets, accordions, and upright bass to produce a lively and irresistable sound. Their unique style and energetic stage presence have earned them performances at premier venues and events such as Conde Nast, New York Fashion Week, Huffington Post, and other locations along the East Coast and in New Orleans. This is an event you will not want to miss! Space is limited. Make your plans to attend, and reserve your tickets.

For more info on Gulf Jazz Society events and other cultural events in Panama City, visit www.destinationpanamacity.com or www.facebook.com/destinationpanamacity.