Preparing for it’s 33rd encore, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s free concert series “Jazz in June” comes back to the Sheldon Sculpture Garden this month, each Tuesday starting at 7 p.m.
First debuting in the summer of 1992, Jazz in June is Lincoln’s longest-running outdoor concert series. The free event offers up renowned jazz performances, educational outreach, topped with a food truck market from 5 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday in June.
“I love the sense of tradition,” Jazz in June Coordinator Paige Patton told KLIN News. “This is our 33rd year hosting Jazz in June, and there are people who have been coming to this since year one, so it’s fun to see how this has really impacted the community.”
The Jazz in June 2024 Lineup:
- June 4 — Big Wade & Black Swan Theory — a Omaha-based jazz collective offering a high-energy blend of soul, funk, R&B, and jazz. (NOTE: Concert will be held at The Rococo Theatre, N. 13th and “P” Street, at 7:00 p.m.)
- June 11 — The Spicy Pickles Ft. Hannah Rodriguez — a Denver-based ensemble dishing up swing/dance favorites and American Golden Era visuals.
- June 18 — Mwenso & the Shakes — a unique troupe of global artists merging jazz, funk, and R&B through African and Afro American music; presenting an electrifying show the New York Times calls “intense, prowling, and ebullient.”
- June 25 — The YAYennings Quartet — lead by 4-time Grammy award-winning trumpeter Jay Jennings, best known for his work with the award-winning band Snarky Puppy, the Los Angeles-based YAYennings Quartet adds a modern twist to the 1950’s West Coast bebop sound through original compositions.
“We had Mwenso & the Shakes back in 2018, and we are really excited to have them back again with us,” Patton added. Also returning this year will be numerous fan favorite food trucks from years past, and newcomers like Papi Churros, Harbor Coffee House, Rutabagas, and more.
Family friendly activities for children will be presented by the Girl Scouts. If you want to arrive early and find a good spot for the show, a group yoga session will be held on the green from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
The night doesn’t need to end when the band finish either. Patton says downtown Lincoln’s nearby jazz hub “Zoo Bar” on N. 14th and “P” Street will keep jammin’ after the band’s finish.
“They’re going to host a bit of a ‘Jazz in June After Party’ where you can head over there, have an alcoholic beverage and listen to even more great jazz,” said Patton.
Dogs and alcohol are not allowed at the event itself.
VIP tickets include a guaranteed space in the VIP section (you must bring your own chair or blanket). Purchase a season pass and receive a 20% discount on VIP tickets to all Jazz in June events. More information at liedcenter.org/jazz-june-2024.