The NIMFest Concert Series will celebrate Jazz on Sunday, August 4, with performances by the John McKenna Quartet and Bill Killian.
John McKenna, a notable saxophonist, composer & teacher at the University of Rhode Island, Umass Dartmouth, Roger Williams University, and CCRI, has toured major festivals in the U.S. & Europe with artists like Joe Lovano. McKenna has recorded on numerous albums, including Larry Golding’s Big Stuff (Warner Bros.), featuring Bill Stewart, Kurt Rosenwinkle, and Idris Muhammad. John has performed gigs & concerts with bands led by Tootie Heath, Red Rodney, and Mulgrew Miller. He has three recordings under his name, the most recent is Portraits featuring Bruce Barth, Anthony Santor and Victor Lewis.
John McKenna’s extensive experience and creative vision are reflected in his quartet’s engaging repertoire, which spans classic jazz standards to contemporary compositions. McKenna’s expertise and passion for music shine through in every performance, making the John McKenna Quartet a must-see act at this year’s NIMFest.
The afternoon begins with a performance by acclaimed local musician Bill Killian, whose engaging style of acoustic guitar inspired by rhythms from around the world have earned him a well-deserved reputation in the Rhode Island music scene. Killian’s opening set will set the stage for an afternoon of musical brilliance.
NIMFest, short for Newport Independent Music Festival, has become a favorite summer concert series in Newport. It celebrates local and regional artists in a family-friendly atmosphere. The event is free and open to the public, inviting music lovers from across Rhode Island to enjoy an afternoon of live music in one of Newport’s most scenic parks.
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the outdoor concert experience fully. The public is encouraged to carpool, as parking is limited. Alcohol is not permitted in the park. All concerts are scheduled for 3 pm to 6 pm, with the possibility of rain dates in September, if necessary.
For more information about NIMFest and to stay updated on the event schedule, visit www.NewEnglandMusic.org and www.NorthEndEntertainment.com.
The free outdoor concert series is made possible by the City of Newport, New England Music Organization, and North End Entertainment thanks to a generous gift from the Hamilton Family Foundation.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, August 4th, 2024
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: King Park Gazebo, Newport, RI
125 Wellington Ave, Newport, RI 02840
The 2024 NIMFest Concert Series Schedule
August 4th – John McKenna Quartet & Bill Killian
August 11th – The 40 & Mark T. Small
August 18th – The Firehouse Band – The NEE Jam Experience
August 25th – Hush Club & Contrafact
