On Saturday, July 20 we made the brave decision to venture out into the heatwave for Coltrane Day at Heckscher Park… and boy are we glad we did! It was a day full of amazing live music, good food, and tons of interesting workshops.

The fifth annual event was hosted by the John & Alice Coltrane Home, the Town of Huntington and the Huntington Arts Council.

“Tucked away in the residential neighborhood of Dix Hills, this two-story, brick and wood frame home was where John and Alice Coltrane chose to put down roots and raise their family from 1964 to 1973. John and Alice wrote and recorded some of their most enduring works in this peaceful suburban setting.”

Coltrane Day celebrates everything that they stood for and continues his legacy!

Performances of the day included the opening act of Dudley Music, Bobby Rozario & Rudra, and interview with Albert “Tootie” Heath/Davvid Liebman, and the night concluded with performances by both of them!

Even with the scorching 95 degree weather, you could feel the fun energy of the crowd.

Workshops included a Girls/Ladies Only Improv, a Drum Circle, Songwriting, and even a Master Class with the talented Dave Liebman.

Food choices included Southern Comfort Cuisine at Good Eats Grill, and t-shirts and other fun items were available for purchase! There was even an area titled “Coltrane Kid Station” for the little ones to play while you enjoyed the music and afternoon.

If you didn’t make it to the event this year, be sure to mark it on your calendars for 2020!

Photos and writing by Sophie Frisina