Smooth Jazz News - October-November-Decemeber - 2024

4 4 | S M O O T H J A Z Z N E W S By Melanie Maxwell Whenever an established event changes venues, it’s continued success is not always guaranteed. However, when Rick Braun moved his always-sold-out New Year’s Eve Getaway from Tucson, Arizona, to Orlando, Florida, in 2023 it retained its popular status. “I’m very happy to say that, once again, we sold out last year, and we’ve actually grown the event for this year, and we expect to sell it out as well,” Braun said. Orlando venue advantages e trumpeter is thrilled with the new venue, the Rosen Shingle Hotel, which is less than 10 miles from the airport, Disney World and Universal Studios Florida. “ e amenities are much more extensive than what we had in Tucson, including an on-property steakhouse, Mexican restaurant, Italian restaurant, multiple bars and a 24-hour grocery store o the lobby,” he said. “ e venue is larger with a capacity of a 1,000-plus people with a larger stage, more lighting and big screens projecting the show, so everyone has a good seat.” He also praised his partner in this endeavor, Cathy Powers, founder of e Florida Smooth Jazz Foundation. “She’s doing a fantastic job looking a er all of the guests’ needs and production details and allowing me to focus on being the trumpet player and host.” In addition to Braun, this year’s lineup includes Richard Elliot, Peter White, Gerald Albright, Lindsey Webster, Marcus Anderson, Nathan Mitchell and Julian Vaughn. “We put a lot of thought into our lineup each and every year,” Braun said. “It’s important for us to bring a good mix of vocalists and instrumentalists to the event. We are always looking for marquis artists, the crème de la crème of talent, who know how to bring the party to the people, and new talent so people can get to know and appreciate up-and-coming artists better,” said Braun, who’s releasing his new “It’s Christmas” record on Oct. 11. “ e Ultimate Party” “For those who haven’t been to our event, we like to call it the ‘Ultimate Smooth Jazz New Year’s Party.’ And that party includes two evenings of great music and a gourmet dinner on New Year’s Eve. e main show features me as your host along with some of my best and most talented friends. I host an optional golf tournament on Dec. 30, and we have a wonderful morning together on a very user-friendly course. “Each and every year, I get so much joy out of hosting this event. We have an opportunity to raise money for the cause of autism and have a wonderful time together enjoying your favorite artists’ music, good food, golf and good friends! e hotel is wonderful, the music is amazing, and we do our best to make this the place to be to ring in the new year,” he concluded. For tickets or more information about Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Getaway, scheduled for Dec. 30-31, at the Rosen Shingle Hotel in Orlando, Florida, visit www. oridasmoothjazz.com/rick-brauns- nye-24, or call 386-681-7007. Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve Getaway in Orlando, FloridA Photo: Raj Naik continued from page 43 Rick Braun Rosen Shingle Hotel