Art and All That Jazz hits a high note

Burnsville’a Art and All That Jazz festival is “a definite go.”

The event, that has grown to draw jazz lovers from across the nation, appeared to be in jeopardy because some major sponsors withdrew support.

The good news for jazz lovers is the result of  some give and take from the production company and an uptick in local fundraising, said Dan Gustafson, event founder.
“I believe that we will have enough funding that we are comfortable taking a little risk on this,” he said.

First held in 2004, the festival focused on local talent. It grew steadily in popularity and attracted performers with national name recognition.

The recent financial wakeup call offered planners time to “step back and go back to our roots and focus on our local musicians,” Gustafson said. Mick Sterling & the Irresistibles will headline the two-day event planned for Aug. 19-20 at Nicollet Commons Park.

Gustafson said that fundraising will continue.

For more information about the festival, or how to make a contribution, call 952-201-3507, or send a tax deductible donation to Art and All That Jazz, Inc. 1305 Lacota Lane, Burnsville MN 55337.