Dear Liza,
Spring is here, a particularly warm and sunny spring, and Front Porch Jazz has returned, as well.
On Sunday afternoons, weather permitting, Gordon Lee and a very talented group of musicians perform on his front porch, just a few blocks from our house. The porch is at a quiet intersection with almost no traffic. So Gordon puts a sign out and folks bring chairs, wine and food, and sit on the sidewalks or right in the middle of the street. Large upturned buckets set up warn any drivers of what’s going on.
The band has a keyboard, stand-up bass, drums, and alto sax. They play classics like Spring is Here and Cantaloupe Island (my favorite Herbie Hancock song) as well as Gordon’s original compositions like Pendulum Swings and Tobacco Monkey.
The music is great, the camaraderie is amazing, and the vibe is most definitely Portland.
Good Portland. Positive Portland. Funky, happy, neighborly Portland.
And the decor was great.
Love,
Grandma Judy
Dear Liza 
OH HOW I WISH someone in my area would start something like this…. we have large enough lawns to offer space for people… Do you mind If i repost this on my blog? I’d love it if it could start a movement! Thanks!! (awaiting your permission)
XO Ruthie
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Yes, sure! I’d love it if this sort of live music came to everyone! The groups are small and the audiences free and easy. There is a tip jar but no requirements. Enjoy!
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