Press Release

Hot summer, hotter jazz – at the Rothko Chapel

June 13, 2017

Hot summer, hotter jazz – at the Rothko Chapel

Summer Sounds on the Plaza kicks off with the Boomtown Brass Band

Thursday, July 6

HOUSTON – June 13, 2017 – The summer is heating up with a family-friendly New Orleans jazz concert at the Rothko Chapel.

At 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 6, the nonprofit kicks off its annual concert series, Summer Sounds on the Plaza, with a performance by the Boomtown Brass Band, Houston’s only dedicated traditional jazz ensemble.

The concert is free and open to the public with a suggested donation of $10.

“Boomtown Brass Band has become a crowd favorite around Houston,” Rothko Chapel public programs and community engagement director Ashley Clemmer said. “Houstonians of all ages can enjoy the beauty of the Rothko Chapel plaza, while listening to some great live jazz music – and everyone is welcome to get up and dance.”  

Formed in 2015 by tuba player Thomas Helton, Boomtown Brass Band performs the high-energy Dixieland and ragtime jazz of 1920s New Orleans. Inspired by acts like the Louis Armstrong Hot Five and Hot Seven, New Orleans Rhythm Kings, Jelly Roll Morton, Bix Beiderbecke and Jabbo Smith, the band features guitar, banjo, tuba, saxophone, clarinet, cornet and trombone.

Complimentary beverages will be provided by Saint Arnold’s Brewing Company. Steel City Pops will be on-site selling all-natural creamy and fruity popsicles.

Families are invited to bring a blanket and picnic and grab a spot on the lawn.

In case of inclement weather, check for updates on rothkochapel.org, www.facebook.com/RothkoChapel or call 713-524-9839.

For more information about the Boomtown Brass Band, www.boomtownbrassband.com.

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About the Rothko Chapel

The Rothko Chapel is open to the public every day of the year at no charge and successfully interconnects art, spirituality and compassionate action through a broad array of free public programs. Founded by Houston philanthropists Dominique and John de Menil, the Chapel was dedicated in 1971 as an intimate sanctuary. Today it stands as a monument to art, spirituality and human rights. As an independent non-profit, non-governmental organization, the Chapel depends on contributions from foundations and individuals to support its mission of creating a space for contemplation and dialogue on important issues.

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