GNY EP.196 | feat. Frank Malfitano Syracuse Jazz Fest

Frank Malfitano Previews the 40th Syracuse International Jazz Fest (July 9–12) Host Matt Masur interviews Frank Malfitano, founder and longtime producer of the Syracuse International Jazz Fest, who describes the festival as a free, community-supported labor of love rather than a money-making venture. Malfitano highlights the event’s inclusive “big tent” audience and family-friendly atmosphere, and outlines the 40th anniversary schedule: July 9 at Syracuse University’s National Veterans Resource Center featuring the U.S. Air Force Airmen of Note big band; July 10–11 at Beacon Skiff Apple Orchards in Lafayette with acts including Hijira (Joni Mitchell’s jazz), Dumpstaphunk paying tribute to Sly & the Family Stone, Tower of Power, Nathan Williams & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Gunhild Carling, and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue; and July 12 at SU with a free picnic lunch. Details are at syracusejazzfest.com. 00:00 Jazz Joke Cold Open 00:16 Meet Frank Malfitano 01:10 What Is Jazz Fest 02:16 Festival Vibe And Audience 03:23 Opening Night At NVRC 05:55 Beacon Skiff Venue Move 06:55 Friday Night Lineup Highlights 08:10 How They Book Big Acts 09:37 Food And Visiting Syracuse 12:24 Saturday Night Louisiana Party 14:06 Sponsors And Community Legacy 15:21 Dates Website And Farewell