The Scottsdale Jazz Festival will kick off its annual celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month by hosting an opening night concert Thursday, April 24, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

Rhythm and jazz will come alive with an educational session about Russell “Big Chief” Moore presented by his great nephew, Jacob Moore, followed by a short concert by “Doc Jones and Friends,” along with a light reception in the Christine and Ted Mollring Sculpture Garden.

The educational session will celebrate the legacy of Moore, a Pima tribe member who grew up on the Gila River Indian community lands before moving to Chicago and then Los Angeles where he learned to play various instruments, eventually settling on trombone.

Throughout his career, Moore worked with an array of artists including Frank Sinatra, Lionel Hampton, Alberta Hunter and Pee Wee Russell as well as recording under his own name. According to a press release, he is best remembered for his work as a member of Louis Armstrong’s band.

“We’re looking forward to being a part of this special evening for the Scottsdale Jazz Festival and educating music lovers about Moore’s influence of Native American contributions to jazz,” said Todd Bankofier, CEO of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

Following the educational session, the founder of the International Jazz Day AZ Foundation William Doc Jones will perform with “Doc Jones and Friends.”

To attend ($10/person or $8/person for members of Western Spirit), visit westernspirit.org.

Attendees are also invited to the Scottsdale Jazz Festival’s grand finale of celebrations taking place at the Scottsdale Civic Center Saturday, April 26, which will include a dynamic showcase of talent featuring Rick Braun and Richard Elliot.

From smooth melodies to powerful rhythms, the event will highlight the diverse styles and emotional depth that make jazz an enduring art form.

Visitors can enjoy a day of performances in the scenic surroundings of the recently renovated Civic Center. The festival welcomes music lovers of all ages and offers a family-friendly environment where the legacy of jazz can be celebrated together.

“We’re excited to unite the community and honor the timeless impact of jazz with these remarkable events,” said Jones.

For more information on the Scottsdale Jazz Festival, visit scottsdalejazzfest.org.

For more information on Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, visit westernspirit.org, call 480-686-9539.