At Jazz Jam, fans join together to hear the unique stylings of various artists. It’s a time for fun, relaxation and celebrating artistry.
Jazz Jam is held every Wednesday from 10 p.m.-midnight at Rose Bowl Tavern, featuring a different cast each week. On Wednesday, the Rose Bowl Jazz Jam House Band performed, with Max Osawa on the drums, Troy Robertson III on the bass, Reginald Lewis on the saxophone and host Kurt Reeder on the piano.
Audience member Robert Chen said he attended Jazz Jam for the first time on Wednesday because his friend had raved about the event. As a former drummer, he noted his favorite part of the band’s performance was Osawa’s drum solos, and that he “lit up” when he first heard the band.
Chen also said he enjoyed Rose Bowl Tavern’s atmosphere during the event.
“I like this kind of calm — but not too calm — vibe,” Chen said. “It gets people really excited about the show and talking.”
The band performed on a small stage across from the bar, with warm, colorful lighting filling the room.
Qinhau Hu, who received a Master’s degree in finance from the University this spring, is a regular Jazz Jam attendee. Hu said he played the saxophone as a teenager but couldn’t continue playing in college, so he was happy to experience Jazz Jam one more time before leaving Champaign.
“As a musician myself, being able to see their face and their emotions while they are performing their own art is the most enjoyable thing for me,” Hu said.
Hu said he comes to Jazz Jam because the musicians are professional and deliver high-quality performances. He considers it a gift that he can watch these performers free of charge.
Hu said he loves watching these performers because jazz doesn’t have rules, which allows musicians to play based on their feelings.
“It’s almost like I have my own rhythm of my life, and when I’m listening to jazz, I feel like my life is moving,” Hu said.
Whether it’s the artists on the stage or the guests watching in admiration, Jazz Jam is a magnet for musicians. Their passion serves as a reminder that when you eliminate rules, you are left with art.
