Novel Jazz is returning to the Skidompha Public Library in Damariscotta on Friday, June 28 from  7 to 9:30 p.m. playing hot swinging jazz out of the Great American Songbook to benefit Skidompha’s Little Food Pantry.

This year marks the 20th year that the musicians of this group have been playing straight-ahead jazz for audiences throughout Maine (and beyond). Collectively, they share over two centuries of experience in the jazz idiom. The musicians of Novel Jazz are Herb Maine (acoustic bass), Barney Balch (trombone), Bill Manning (drums), David Clarke (guitar), Michael Mitchell (trumpet), Mickey Felder (piano), and Nate Johengen (woodwinds).

Novel Jazz events at Skidompha began with the observation that lovers of books often are lovers of jazz. The superb acoustics of Skidompha’s atrium, plus the seating “in the round,” make it a superior place to see and hear jazz, all in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.  It was while performing at Skidompha the band began their unique focus on jazz giants Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn.  Just prior to the pandemic, the band released their fourth CD featuring more compositions by the two jazz icons. 

Admission is free and all are welcome to this special concert, but in lieu of purchasing a ticket, the library requests that attendees bring either a financial donation (suggested $20/person) for the library, food or personal hygiene items for Skidompha’s Little Food Pantry, all to support other community members in need.  Pantry items must not be expired and must be unopened. Donations, however, are not required for attendance.

Parents are encouraged to bring their children, the future of this art form.  The library is located at 184 Main St. in downtown Damariscotta.  Call 207-887-0919 during business hours for more information or, point your web browser to http://www.skidompha.org/ or the band’s web site www.mainejazz.net .