Jazz at the Gazebo

Every summer since 1978 the Saratoga Performing Arts Center has hosted one of America's most exciting jazz festivals. Summer jazz festivals have multiplied since this effort was inaugurated, but few match the quality and quantity of music offered at this two-day outing.

Some of the most exciting music happens at the small stage called the Gazebo. Competing for audience attention with name acts on the main stage inspires these up-and-coming acts to excel. The intimate venue allows the audience to connect with these musicians in ways that the main stage does not.

We've been going to the festival since it started, and when we go, we make sure we set up seats in the Gazebo audience. Seats are first come, first serve, so arriving early is key.

The venue also allows great access to performers and these photos were taken at the edge of the stage. I believe I've gotten names correct, but part of the fun in the Gazebo is the knowledge that you may never again see or hear from an artist who touches your soul. This display is a tribute back to these hard working musicians.

Photographer's Notes

All shots were taken with a Canon Digital Rebel with a Canon 28mm-135mm IS USM lens. Access was great so I was frequently within arm's reach of the musicians.

Even though it was a great sunny day, the gazebo area is shaded and fairly low light. All these shots took advantage of only available light, yet I wanted fairly quick shutter speeds on most shots to avoid extreme motion blur. ISO was set at 400. The shots here used a shutter speed between 1/80 sec. and 1/200 sec.