Jazz on the River, the new weekly concert series brought to you by the River Valley Jazz Society and Wausau River District, kicks off this Sunday, July 9, with John Greiner’s Swing Shift Band at the new stage in the Marathon County Library plaza along the Wisconsin River.

Jazz on the River will take place every week from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.. through Augt 27. Every concert is free and open to the public, and people are encouraged to bring their own chairs, tables, and picnics for the evening.

Jazz on the River brings a new sound to the riverfront and marries the rich histories of riverfront commerce with jazz music in Wausau.

“I love the spirited creative energy and enthusiastic support for live music and the arts in Wausau, and am thrilled to be a part of Jazz on the River,” said Denise Sauter, a local musician who spearheaded the project. “We have a dynamic series planned and we look forward to adding a strong jazz element to Wausau’s vibrant arts community.”

Sauter, who is actively involved in the River Valley Jazz Society, said she saw the potential in the plaza behind the library as a stage for local musicians as well as the collaborative opportunities between the two organizations.

Sauter and her team of local musicians have put together a stellar line-up of summer jazz groups and musicians for the series. Upcoming performances include:

  • July 9: John Greiner’s Swing Shift Big Band
  • July 16: Jazz Central Voices
  • July 23: UWSP Faculty Quintet
  • July 30: Christine Salerno & Ziji
  • August 6: Janet Planet
  • August 13: Omnos Quintet
  • August 20: Denise Sauter
  • August 27: Tim Buchholz

More information on Jazz on the River can be found on the River Valley Jazz Society’s website: https://www.rivervalleyjazz.org/jazz-on-the-river/. Because the concert series is outdoors, the Masonic Temple, across the street from the library plaza, will be the rain location.

The concert series is made possible by a generous grant from the B. A. and Esther Greenheck Foundation, along with support from ENT Associates, BMO Harris, Sauter Home Design and Consulting, and Ruder Ware.