Sponsored by the University of Chicago, the Hyde Park tradition Jazz in the Court is back for the summer 2023 season, with free jazz performances on the first Friday afternoons of June 2, July 7, August 4, and September 1. Concerts will be held outdoors at Harper Court, 5235 S. Harper Court, from 12-2:30 p.m.
Formerly held at the Hyde Park Shopping Center, the original Jazz in the Courtyard concerts began in 2007 as a creative way to attract more people to the landscaped courtyard area at the Hyde Park Shopping Center at 55th Street and S. Lake Park Avenue. The concert series was the idea of Scott Mosak, General Manager of McCaffery Interests, the University of Chicago’s property management company. The event has attracted larger audiences every year, and was moved to Harper Court when it outgrew the shopping center.
Local legend and founder of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival, Carolyn Albritton became the official programmer of the event in 2009, bringing some of jazz’s most notable musicians to Hyde Park. Albritton has been responsible for promoting the Chicago jazz scene as well as other music genres and comedy on the South Side, and is known for spotting undiscovered talents who are now household names. This year, Scott Mosak and Carolyn Albritton are co-producers of the event.
The first performer is JOE MARCINEK on Friday, June 2. Subsequent performers include BILL MCFARLAND & THE CHICAGO HORNS (Friday, July 7), the DENISE THIMES QUARTET (Friday, August 4), and ISAIAH COLLIER & JEREMIAH COLLIER – THE GEMINI PROJECT (Friday, September 1).
The Harper Court parking structure will offer limited free parking between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Standard parking rates will apply for those entering the garage before 10 a.m. or exiting after 4 p.m. Enter on S. Lake Park Avenue just south of McDonald’s.
Support our neighborhood businesses by shopping local. Recyled Modern and Suuri Design are in Harper Court, and The Silver Room and other shops are right around the corner. For a complete list of stores go to welcometohydepark.com.
Enjoy Bob’s Pizza, Chipotle, Daisy’s Po’ Boy & Tavern, Deep Purpl, Ja’ Grill, Jade Court, Roti Modern Mediterranean, and Stan’s Donuts & Coffee – all in Harper Court. Or sample one of the many great eateries on 53rd Street. For a complete list of restaurants go to welcometohydepark.com.
Limited seating will be available, but bring your favorite chair just to be sure. For more information about the event, visit the website or Facebook event page.