Over the years Fredericksburg musicians have been working together to grow the music scene, collaborate, get the word out about live music, and preserve live, creative art. Undoubtedly, there is ample talent to support it.

A few local organizations dedicated to this mission include Fredericksburg All Ages, Fredericksburg Blues Society, The Singin’ Ladies of the ‘Burg and The Fredericksburg Jazz Collective.

Tonight from 7:30 to 10:30 the Fredericksburg Jazz Collective kicks off its 2012 season at The Kenmore Inn in Downtown Fredericksburg. The Bruce Middle Trio, Sabor Afrocubano and The Dangerous Kitchen will each perform a set. You've seen these performers with other groups in the area. Tonight, there is an opportunity to witness the spice of a truly open and historical musical medium. Dance, be merry, and enjoy all styles of jazz and world music.

Bruce Middle, an internationally recognized jazz guitarist, has been performing his original music for more than 30 years. His diverse influences, unique tone, jazzadelic harmonies and impeccable phrasing are something to behold. He is also an adjunct music professor at the University of Mary Washington. The trio, with Bang! Music owner Joe Kane on drums, and Jim BoBerg on bass, holds tight, yet improvisationally free as they move through the tunes. Other featured players include bassist Moe Jones and Toby Fairchild on drums.

Sabor  Afrocubano is a spicy Latin jazz combo that keeps your hips shakin’ and your feet jumpin’. This group features Becky Stewart on flute (occasionally keys), Slam Stewart on percussion and world-renowned Congaro,  Limon Perez from Havana, Cuba (Cuban Group Clave y Guaguanco). Young Nic Sam plays bass and Tom Beaulieu on guitar. You will dance—or at least you will want to.

Dangerous Kitchen, anchored by Chris Fink on drums, is an instrumental group featuring Fredericksburg’s own tenor sax player, Nate Masters. And yes, he is a master at the sax. Ron Knobler rocks the bass and Ed Prokop gracefully and tastefully plays guitar. Other featured guitar players, including Ken Philips, have been known to sit in as well. This group has been known to dance through all the eras of jazz with flavors of the 19030s and New Orleans style.

The Fredericksburg Jazz Collective was founded by Chris Fink, Ed Prokop, Nate Masters, Bruce Middle, Ron Knobler and Harold Brooks in March 2011. The Fredericksburg Jazz Collective is dedicated to “advancing public awareness of jazz music, history, pioneers, styles, techniques, and its influence on modern culture and artistic expression. The FJC supports a revival of live music in Fredericksburg and its surrounding areas for the benefit of the community’s local health.”

There couldn’t be a better venue to hear all the styles of jazz that will be heard tonight. Kenmore Inn is one of the best pubs in town, with indoor and patio seating. Combine that with great food and bar service, and you couldn’t have a better evening. Your ears, tummy and soul will thank you.

So get your feet moving in one of the coolest downstairs pubs in town. Kenmore’s vibe and top bar service will help guarantee a night of enjoyable music.

Learn more about the Fredericksburg Jazz Collective and getting involved by visiting them online.