Jazzin’ up the beach

Summer Jazz Series returns to Seawalk Pavilion

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Local residents armed with beach chairs and coolers took to the green of the Seawalk Pavilion Sunday to enjoy an evening of jazz music, as the City of Jacksonville Beach presented the first of two concerts for its 15th annual Summer Jazz Series.

Beginning at 5 p.m., The Groov, J. J. Sansaverino and headlining act The Jazz All Stars performed for the crowd. First-time visitor Tommy Green followed the music, citing the atmosphere of the beach paired with smooth jazz as the highlight of the event. Attendee Danielle Burns of Jacksonville, meanwhile, was making her third visit to the annual event.

“I plan to come here every year,” Burns said. “I love jazz.”

The Groov enlivened the audience with instrumental jazz covers of classic hits such as “What’s Going on” by Marvin Gaye, while J. J. Sansaverino performed originals, among them “Montego Bay” from his latest album, “Waiting for You.”

Between sets, Jacksonville Beach Mayor Charlie Latham took the stage at 6 p.m., asking visitors to bow their heads for a minute of silence at Governor Rick Scott’s request to honor the victims of Sunday’s terrorist attack in Orlando.

The Summer Jazz Series continues next month on July 10, with Isaac Byrd, Jr., Althea Rene & Jeanette Harris and headlining act Four 80 East featuring special guest Art Sherrod, Jr.