Now that jazz bastion Blue Bamboo has finally reopened in its grand new digs in
the old Winter Park Library building, a steady parade of featured acts is back on. But the heart of the Boo has always been owner-operators Chris and Melody Cortez, and no engagement showcases its soul quite like when Chris himself takes the stage.
Cortez’s regular performances with talented local players are the pulse of the joint.
Cortez will be joined by Walt Hubbard (drums), Doug Mathews (bass), Ed Krout (keyboards) and Dan Jordan (sax, flute). As always, the band will first perform a formal set. Afterward, they open it up for a jazz jam session and invite musicians
to bring their own instruments and jump in with them — a guitar amp, bass amp, drums and piano are available for use.
More than just a show, it’s an intimate gathering with the “for us, by us” vibe that’s
woven the Boo deep enough into the community to make this new reopening possible. Come ring in the bright new era with old friends. Thanks in part to a City of Winter Park grant, it’s free.
8 p.m. Thursday, July 3, Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, free.
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This article appears in Jun 25 – Jul 1, 2025.
