Old Webster Jazz Festival From Rockin' Blues to Jazz, and from New Orleans Zydeco to Swing

2013 Festival Banner

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This was the old site for the Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival that is still held annually in Groves, MO. After 2013 the domain registration for the site expired after their new site was built and taken live. This site disappeared from the internet.

Their new snazzy site is found at: www.oldwebsterjazzfest.com/.

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I was delighted when I recently discovered that the domain for the OldWebsterJazzFestival.com/ was available so I bought it with the goal of recreating some of its content from archived pages and to point visitors to their new site. I definitely didn't want someone else purchasing the domain and re-purposing the site for something that had nothing in common with the jazz festival. SO the site doesn't look like the original, but the content and images are taken from its archived pages. Go to their new site to see what's happening. Take a look at this page to inspire you to go to the next Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival.

The first time I attended an Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival was a few years ago when I was in St Louis attending a conference for Salesforce certified consultants. The progressive software company that I work for has a robust Salesforce consulting team that helps our clients broaden the domain of possibilities and applications for their business on the Salesforce platform. Nevertheless, I was sent to the conference as a means for my company to network. In addition I was tasked to visit several potential clients in St Louis and present a Salesforce pitch. My guide to the Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival was another attendee whom I meet during a "meet and mingle" luncheon on the first day of the convention. What a serendipitous luncheon for both of us.

I think of that time as the good old days when traveling for business or pleasure was common place. The Covid 19 pandemic has changed everything. All my meetings / conferences are now virtual. I work from home here in Melbourne Australia. We've been through a number of lockdowns. The longest was last summer in 2020 when Melbourne residents. It's worth noting that these settings were not referred to by the government or the press as a "lockdown" at the time. Instead, we were under "stay-at-home" orders, distinct from the much harsher restrictions that would later be used to defeat the city's second wave of infections. That distinction become less important to many of us over time, with a common acceptance that we're now in lockdown, again. The economic and social impact of Melbourne’s repeated lockdown since the crisis began has been enormous. Like many Australians I spent a lot of time, excluding my work hours, at online casinos mainly playing pokies (slots). I would check in every Thursday to Online-Casino-Party.co, an affiliate for some online casinos and check out their promo page created specifically for Australian players. I tned to play at several Australian player friendly casinos. Uptown Pokies Casino is a pokies heaven for players such as myself. Uptown Pokies Casino uses RealTime Gaming (RTG) software considered to be the fastest software available for desk top and mobile. I happen to like their pokie games. I was hoping that now there are vaccines available to help protect against the Covid 19 virus, life will return to normal, but with the emergence of the Delta variant that doesn't look like it will be the case. Here we are in Sept 2021 and Australian authorities on Wednesday extended the COVID-19 lockdown in Melbourne for another three weeks, as they shift their focus to rapid vaccination drives and move away from a suppression strategy to bring cases down to zero.

Take me back to 2010, please!

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2010 Festival Banner

The Old Webster Jazz Festival was founded and supported by the Old Webster Taxing District. It is held annually to help promote music and culture in the Old Webster Historic District. Joe Rath is the current president of the Old Webster Taxing District.

Why Come? ​

One of the most family-friendly jazz festivals on the planet, the Old Webster Jazz Festival is housed in historical charm that promises non-stop jazz. Ten miles southwest of St. Louis, the site combines family and audible art free of charge. From rockin’ Blues to Jazz, and from New Orleans Zydeco to Swing, two stages at the award winning event feature a fresh lineup of the best in St. Louis classics.  The jazz fest also offers free parking.

The entire community is involved as hip kids show other young hip kids that jazz is cool. Don’t miss Tribute to Johnnie Johnson with Surprise Guests, Wild Cool & Swingin’, Webster University Jazz Band, Gumbohead, Anita Rosamond, Marquise Knox Blues Band, SIUE Faculty Jazz Ensemble, Joe Bozzi Band and more!

Savor diverse food and drink along with a gallery of fine art.  Street entertainers amuse spectators with fire eating, juggling, and balloon blowing clowns.  Bring your kids, strollers, and dogs for a day of celebration, education, and commemoration.

 

2007 Festival Banner

 

 

2007 Schedule of Performances

General Festival Guidelines:

Please Note: No Alcoholic Beverages or glass bottles will be allowed to be brought into the Festival.

For safety reasons, we will not permit alcohol to be brought into the festival streets.

Alcohol is available inside the festival from our food vendors.

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival will take place on two streets in the historic Old Webster business district. Festival goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets (keep in mind this takes place on the streets of Old Webster, so the ground is not comfortable) ... lawn chairs recommended. We suggest you park in one of three parking lots; The Public Parking Garage, The South Gore Parking Lot or the parking lot to the west of Straubs parking lot on Lockwood Ave.. You can also park on the street throughout the historic district. All parking is FREE. All music is FREE. There will be outside food cafes, inside restaurants, outside BBQ, inside bars (21 or over), outside refreshments, inside shopping and galleries, outside exhibits and displays. There will be a childrens play zone sponsored by The City of Webster Groves with many activities for the children. Come and plan on spending the day and evening with us. 

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2005 Festival Banner

 

Artist Bios

 

Billy Peek: Johnnie Johnson Tribute

...carries a rock-heaviness in the fretwork while maintaining more soulfulness than 99 percent of those who toil in the rock-blues trench.

 - Tom 'Papa' Ray, VINTAGE VINYL

An elite member of Blues royalty, guitarist Billy Peek has rocking roots, having rolled Chuck Berry-style in the 60s and backed Rod Stewart on a few albums in the 70s. Before working with Stewart, Billy Peek played throughout St. Louis in the Gaslight Square era. He is one of the finest rock and blues guitarists in the country. Peek's album, Can the white boy play the Blues?, was selected as one of ten from Tom Ray as the best in St. Louis Blues. If you hunger for rock-n-soul or an awe-inspiring duck walk, don't miss this white boy play the Blues!

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Erin Bode Quartet

And then there are people who are the real deal; classically trained and able to sing without backing tracks.

- Debbie Monterrey, KMOX 1120 AM

Singer Erin Bode has a beautiful, crystal clear voice that is too exquisite to miss. Her sweet personality and sincere performances win over each audience, while her distinctive repertoire and crossover appeal make her equally at home in grand venues or relaxed clubs. Erin performs tunes from the Great American Songbook, pop classics, along with original songs and arrangements. She continues to justify herself as a great voice to remember. The Erin Bode Group has performed internationally, and opened for legendary Supremes' singer, Mary Wilson; for Michael Buble; and for Jamie Cullum.

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Corey Christiansen Trio

“From the first note, Corey Christiansen lights a rhythmic fire that never flickers, punctuating chords with precision and soloing with zeal on this set of inventive originals and standards.”

- Dave Zaworski, Downbeat Magazine

 “Awakening, the first track of the nine, foreshadows not so much the adventurous nature of Christiansen’s playing to come, even though he makes clear that a pushing of the envelope certainly can be a component of his talent, but rather the crystalline nature of his tone, rich and glowing, and the logical development of his solos, narrative in their logic. Awakening awakens listeners to a superb guitarist who has developed his own approach that remains technically accomplished and inviting.”

- Bill Donaldson, Jazz Improv Magazine

Since he joined the Mel Bay Publications team as Senior Music Editor and advisor to Product Development in 2001, Corey Christiansen has over forty publications with Mel Bay and has conducted countless guitar clinics and concerts across the country and beyond. His freshman CD, Awakening, spent twelve weeks on the JazzWeek chart in the first four months of 2005, reaching #16. He recently toured Australia for two weeks, and has performed at many notable festivals in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Italy, Finland and Idaho. At the latter event, Christiansen was named Outstanding College Guitarist at its Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. On November 11th, Corey returns to the Smithsonian Jazz Café to record his second Mel Bay Record project in a duo with guitarist Vic Juris. He has performed with Jimmy Bruno, Vic Juris, Rob McConnell, Joe Negri, Willie Akins, Chuck Redd, Sid Jacobs and Jack Wilkins.

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Jeanne Trevor: Gaslight Square Tribute

...she's still a regular presence in St. Louis...Still maintaining a busy schedule that'd be the toast of any performer, Trevor's also one of the nicest people you'd ever care to meet.

- Thomas Crone, Gaslight Square: An Oral History

Relive the nostalgia of Gaslight Square with vocalist Jeanne Trevor. In a recent show, Trevor played Gaslight Square: Cool & Hip. She is still a regular performer at local clubs and festivals, and has performed with the Quartet Trés Bien. A musical actress, Jeanne Trevor tells jazz with a story. Known as a jazz singer from her concentration on cabaret songs and scat singing, Trevor harkens back to a memorable era. Similar to Old Webster Grove’s nostalgia, Gaslight, too, is a history icon. Listen as Jeanne Trevor recreates a potpourri of tunes for you!

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Wild, Cool and Swingin' Featuring Jim Manley

Jim's trumpet soars, pops, sizzles and purrs through exciting arrangements.

- Jazz Trumpet Journal

Wild, Cool & Swingin was the result of popular demand for the horn-driven sound of Big Band. Trumpet virtuoso, Jim Manley, shreds through solos with an edgy style that has been compared to Jazz greats such as Maynard Ferguson and Dizzy Gillespie. Manley has received critical acclaim with his four recordings: Some Assembly Required, Lip Trip, Horns in the House and other criminals, and Christmas Unwrapped. His forays into the musical stratosphere are exciting and unbelievable. Enjoy a wonderful night of Big Band arrangements with an unmistakable twist.

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Webster University Jazz Band

Webster University boasts one of the finest, world-class ensembles of educators and artists. All of its musicians are long-time faculty members of the Jazz Program and each are central figures in the St. Louis jazz scene. Drawn from a rich, modern jazz legacy, their repertoire will have you movin’ and groovin’. Founded in 1980 by Steve Schenkel, the performance includes Mike Parkinson (Music Department Chair) on trumpet, Paul DeMarinis (Jazz Studies Director) on saxophone, Steve Schenkel (Professor) on guitar, Carolbeth True (Adjunct Professor) on piano, Ric Vice (Adjunct Professor) on bass, and Kevin Gianino (Adjunct Professor) on drums!

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Leslie Maclean Trio

Her arrangements of a variety of standards and three of her originals are full of subtle surprises and the tightness of her trio is impressive...The music overall is modern mainstream jazz and world class.

- Scott Yanow, Los Angeles Jazz Scene

Leslie MacLean’s masterful pianistic dexterity and harmonic sophistication tend to rival some of jazz’s more prominent pianists.... MacLean’s playing is lyrical, swinging and especially tasteful.

- Paula Edelstein, Sounds of Timeless Jazz.com

Chicago born musician Leslie Maclean began performing her crowd pleasing mix of jazz standards, American Songbook selections, and original compositions in St. Louis after a 20-year stint in her hometown. Novice listeners will be swept away by the trios beautiful playing and familiar melodies that soothe the soul. Ears of advanced listeners awaken when hearing the tricky changes, and quick keystrokes. The group has performed at many of Chicago’s top jazz clubs such as Orphans, The Bulls, and The Back Room. In Kansas City, they work at the famed Blue Room and Jardine’s, and, in Columbia, Murray’s.

They continue to play unique, exciting and passionate renditions of jazz classics and Leslies original compositions.

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Kevin Mitchell 4

Martini Music with a Twist !

Whether it’s for hundreds at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom, a packed room at one of St. Louis’s premier martini bars, or an intimate cocktail party in a private home, the Kevin Mitchell 4 provides jazz music that adds style and class to every event. The quartet features pianist/guitarist, Kevin Mitchell, vocalist, Barb Jochens, saxophonist Steve Kauffmann, and drummer Dave Runde.

 

More Background on OldWebsterJazzFestival.com

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival stands as a vibrant cultural institution in the St. Louis region, celebrated for its dedication to live jazz, blues, and community spirit. While the festival itself is widely recognized, its former website, OldWebsterJazzFestival.com, has played a unique role in documenting and promoting the festival’s rich history. This article explores the festival’s background, the evolution of its web presence, reviews and media coverage, its audience, cultural significance, and the specifics that make both the event and its digital footprint noteworthy—drawing exclusively from sources outside the original website and its current official domain.

History and Evolution of the Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival was established in 2001 by a group of passionate music lovers in the Old Webster Historic District, located about ten miles southwest of St. Louis, Missouri. Their aim was to create a family-friendly event that would celebrate music, foster community, and invigorate the local business district.

From its inception, the festival has grown steadily, drawing well over 12,000 annual attendees in recent years. It is recognized as one of the longest-running jazz festivals in the St. Louis area, with a reputation for showcasing the best local talent and providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. The festival typically takes place on the third Saturday in September, transforming the streets of Old Webster into a lively hub of music, food, and festivity.

The Role and Legacy of OldWebsterJazzFestival.com

Origins and Purpose

OldWebsterJazzFestival.com originally served as the official digital home for the festival. The website provided essential information for attendees, including schedules, performer bios, festival guidelines, parking details, and highlights from past events. It also played a key role in archiving the festival’s history, acting as a repository for photos, press releases, and community testimonials.

Transition and Domain Change

After 2013, the festival’s organizers transitioned to a new website, and the original domain registration for OldWebsterJazzFestival.com lapsed. This led to the disappearance of the site from the internet, creating a gap in the festival’s digital history. However, the domain was later reacquired by an individual intent on preserving its legacy and redirecting visitors to the new official site. This act prevented the domain from being repurposed for unrelated content, maintaining its association with the festival’s heritage.

Archival Value

The reestablished version of OldWebsterJazzFestival.com focused on recreating some of the original content from archived web pages. It served as a digital time capsule, offering snapshots of past festivals, performer spotlights, and community memories. By doing so, it helped bridge the transition between the old and new web presences, ensuring that the festival’s early years remained accessible to fans and researchers.

Festival Experience: What Sets It Apart

Atmosphere and Activities

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival is celebrated for its inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere. The event features two stages set up in the heart of the historic business district, offering non-stop performances from afternoon until late evening. The lineup spans a variety of genres, from classic jazz and blues to zydeco and swing, reflecting the diverse musical heritage of St. Louis.

In addition to live music, the festival includes:

  • Food and drink from local restaurants and vendors

  • Street entertainers such as face-painters, jugglers, and balloon artists

  • Free parking and admission, making it accessible to all

  • Activities for children, encouraging families to participate

  • Opportunities for local businesses and artists to showcase their offerings

Community Engagement

The festival’s organization is deeply rooted in community collaboration. Local sponsors, businesses, and volunteers play a crucial role in its success, and the event is often cited as a highlight of the summer for residents of Webster Groves and surrounding areas. The festival’s ability to draw together people of all ages and backgrounds is a testament to its social and cultural impact.

Reviews and Audience Perspectives

Local Reception

Reviews from local blogs and event coverage consistently praise the festival’s lively atmosphere, high-quality performances, and sense of community. One reviewer noted the increase in dancing and overall energy at the 2024 edition, attributing it to both the excellent music and the festival’s maturation into a beloved local tradition:

“I don’t know what it was about this year’s Webster Jazz Festival, but on Saturday night there was a LOT more dancing in the street than I remember from any years past… the Jazz Festival has really found its groove (pun intended) and has become known as one of our village’s best family events of the summer.”

Another highlight is the festival’s ability to attract large crowds, even when competing events are held nearby. The event’s free admission and family orientation are repeatedly cited as factors that make it accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience.

Performer and Community Feedback

Musicians and bands who perform at the festival often speak highly of the organization and the enthusiastic reception from audiences. The inclusion of school jazz bands and university ensembles provides young musicians with valuable performance opportunities, further cementing the festival’s role in nurturing local talent.

Press and Media Coverage

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival has been featured in regional event listings and cultural guides, which highlight its status as an award-winning, family-friendly gathering. Media coverage emphasizes the festival’s longevity, its contribution to the local arts scene, and its role in promoting downtown Webster Groves as a destination for music lovers and families alike.

Coverage also notes the festival’s resilience and adaptability, particularly in the face of challenges such as competing events and the need to maintain relevance in a changing cultural landscape. The festival’s organizers are commended for their commitment to quality programming and community engagement.

Cultural and Social Significance

A Platform for Local Talent

Jazz festivals, as documented in academic studies, play a vital role in community building, cultural exchange, and the development of local music scenes. The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival exemplifies these qualities by consistently featuring St. Louis’s most talented performers and providing a stage for both established and emerging artists.

Fostering Social Cohesion

The festival’s inclusive approach—welcoming attendees from ages 1 to 100—promotes social cohesion and family togetherness. The event is designed to be accessible, with free admission and activities for children, making it a gathering point for the entire community. This aligns with broader trends in jazz festivals, which are recognized for their ability to unite diverse audiences and foster a sense of belonging.

Economic and Urban Impact

By drawing thousands of visitors to the historic district, the festival contributes to the economic vitality of Webster Groves. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, and the event helps to position the area as a cultural destination within the St. Louis region.

Notable Features and Examples

Diverse Lineups

Over the years, the festival has hosted a wide array of performers, including:

  • The Johnnie Johnson Band (featuring legendary St. Louis pianist Johnnie Johnson)

  • Webster University Jazz Band

  • Marquise Knox Blues Band

  • SIUE Faculty Jazz Ensemble

  • Gumbohead

  • Anita Rosamond

  • Wild, Cool & Swingin’

These lineups reflect the festival’s commitment to musical diversity and its support for local and regional talent.

Memorable Moments

Attendees recall highlights such as:

  • Dancing in the streets under twinkling lights as headliners close out the evening

  • Children participating in face-painting and balloon art

  • Families picnicking on the lawn and enjoying performances together

  • Local restaurants setting up outdoor dining areas, creating a festive, communal atmosphere

Digital Presence: The Importance of Archiving and Accessibility

The story of OldWebsterJazzFestival.com illustrates the importance of digital archiving for cultural events. When the original website went offline, valuable historical content was at risk of being lost. The subsequent effort to recover and preserve this content—while redirecting visitors to the new official site—ensured that the festival’s legacy remained accessible to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

This approach reflects best practices in digital stewardship, where maintaining continuity and historical context is essential for community memory and cultural heritage.

Comparative Context: Jazz Festivals and Community Impact

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival shares many characteristics with other successful jazz festivals in the United States and abroad. Academic research highlights the broader social, economic, and cultural impacts of such events, including:

  • Fostering new audiences for jazz and blues

  • Promoting social interaction and volunteerism

  • Supporting local economies and urban revitalization

  • Acting as sites for cultural exchange and dialogue

The festival’s emphasis on family-friendliness, accessibility, and community engagement positions it as a model for similar events seeking to balance tradition with innovation.

A Lasting Legacy in Music and Community

OldWebsterJazzFestival.com, while no longer the primary digital home for the festival, remains an important part of the event’s history. Its preservation efforts have helped maintain the festival’s legacy, ensuring that the stories, images, and memories from past years continue to inspire and inform.

The Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival itself continues to thrive, drawing thousands of attendees each year and serving as a cornerstone of cultural life in Webster Groves. Its commitment to live music, community celebration, and accessibility makes it a standout event in the St. Louis region and a testament to the enduring power of jazz and blues to bring people together.

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2002 Festival Banner

OldWebsterJazzFestival.com