Saion Square in Asato, Naha, is the the venue for a free jazz performance this weekend.

Jazz lovers have six opportunities to enjoy musical evenings next week as Jazz Night in Naha sponsors performances across three days.

Saion Square in the downtown Asato district will host performances February 8^th and 9^th, and then performances on February 14^thtake place in the open space in front of Palette Kumoji at the south end of Kokusai Street.  Two free performances will take place each of the three evenings, at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

A week later on Feb. 14 the performance moves to Palette Kumoji square.

Jazz is popular in Naha. The current series of performances takes place at four outdoor venues in Tomarin, Saion Square, Palette Kumoji and in front of Tenbusu Naha, all in all 24 stage performances.  All musicians participating in these concerts are Okinawans.  Organizers encourage people to be sure to dress warmly, as evenings can be a bit chilly.

Jazz in Okinawa has grown since U.S. forces were first stationed here after World War II.  Through the years, foreigners and Okinawans have pulled together to hone the sounds and exchange jazz ideas.  With that background, jazz is now a musical icon on the island, on a musical culture on par with Okinawan folk and rock ‘n’ roll.

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