Newburgh Jazz Series is Still Going Strong

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – “Bittersweet”, That was the word Aquanetta Wright, “The Ferry Godmother,” used to describe how she felt Saturday night.

Addressing guests at the final Summer, 2018 “Orange County Pop, Rock, and Doowop Series” concert, Wright, passionate about the music she presents to the community, was visibly emotional about the imminent conclusion of delivering yet another successful season of varied, vibrant and top quality venues to the people she loves.

“I’m sad to see the season coming to an end, but at the same time, very happy that I’m able to present another wonderful concert tonight,” said Wright, who has been the mastermind behind the umbrella event, “The Newburgh Jazz Series” for the past 11 years. “We really want to continue to make these concerts available to the people in Newburgh in order to showcase the good in Newburgh- its people- we have really great ones here.”

And once again, those people turned out to support Wright and her mission of unity and celebration of community. Reclining in lawn chairs, while enjoying picnic basket packed snacks and beverages, an excited crowd made themselves comfortable in People’s Park at the Newburgh Waterfront, imbibing the cool, scenic setting while enjoying the night’s featured band, “The SWINGAROOS.” Bringing a unique, upbeat, “polished” sound while performing authentic 1920’s Broadway Era showtunes, the group, was powerfully highlighted by the lead singer’s pristine vocals and commitment to consistently playing a unique instrument, such as a washboard. That mesmerizing talent, coupled with the playing and songwriting genius of Assaf Gleizner, combine for an amazing listening experience. Gleizner, the band’s leader, who met Wright about five years ago while playing at “Cabaret Showdown” in New York City and again bumping into her at his swing venue in Rockwood Music Hall, forging an ongoing communication, was elated to finally be playing at her Newburgh outdoor forum.

“It’s a really beautiful space here; I just love these community events,” said a smiling Gleizner, originally from Israel. “I especially love the outdoor ones, outside of New York City, as we get a chance to see something new, making it so great to bring our music here and enjoy this wonderful audience.”

Part of that appreciative crowd was Vern Bell, a Town of Newburgh resident, who like so many, for a long period of time, has known and admired Wrights’ dedication to the potential, diversity, and inherent beauty of the Newburgh community for years.

“What she (Aquanetta) is doing is really incredible in this gorgeous spot down by the River, bringing a wide range of all people together,” said Bell. “I love the quality and diversity of the music, whether it’s: Jewish, Gospel, Jazz-anything she does, I will support her, as it’s all so well done and important.”

For Wright, whose Summer, 2018 August Music Series wrapped up Sunday with the last concert in the Jewish genre, her deep devotion to the music events is not only embedded in her love for the people who frequent them, but the ones behind the scenes, lending dire financial support. This year, in addition to the several mainstay sponsors she has had over the years, a “biggie,” Empire Bluecross Blueshield, came on board, lending some much needed and very appreciated fiscal help towards Wright’s ongoing quest to not only provide music, but a very specific and necessary level of that art form with each and every concert.

“Its the quality of the music that has kept us going over the years,” pointed out Wright. “It’s always about the quality above all; the people you see on my stage are professional performers, and they deserve to be paid, as I truly respect their craft and who they are, and am certainly not able to do what they do.”

The “Ferry Godmother” might not play an instrument or sing a melody on stage, but her unwavering insistence on bringing to Newburgh the very best of those who do, certainly has captured the love and devotion of those in that City, leaving a positive and transformative imprint on all who have experienced its magic.