Photo via Twitter/MCA Chicago
The Chicago summer season inspires all sorts of excuses to be outside and soak up the sun, whether it's strolling the lakefront or eating al fresco. But one of the most anticipated fresh air summer events is the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago's annual Tuesday on the Terrace jazz performance series.
Tuesdays are free at the museum for Illinois residents but the Tuesday on the Terrace shows are free for all visitors. Laid out in the Ann and John Kern Terrace Garden, the 5:30-8:30 p.m. performances are the perfect settings for picnics of grilled sandwiches at the Terrace Grill (no outside food or drink allowed) or an early buffet dinner at the MCA Cafe.
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Between the abstract sculptures scattered throughout the garden, some of Chicago's world-class jazz musicians perform for an unforgettable musical experience. Standout performers include versatile jazz and blues singer Maggie Brown, daughter of legendary jazz singer Oscar Brown on July 19, iconic saxophonist Fred Anderson and his Legacy Band on Aug. 30 and avant garde jazz darling Tatsu Aoki and his Miyumi Project, which combines jazz with Japanese traditional music, on Sept. 20.
The crowds always fill every space of the garden so arrive early for seats or blanket space or you'll end up standing with the late comers. Music fans usually linger, sipping the terrace's cocktails, wine or beer, so be ready for a relaxed afternoon of music and fun. The museum is open throughout the performances and many visitors check out the exhibits during the performers' set breaks.
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Current can't miss exhibits at the MCA include the residency of Grammy Award-winning musical ensemble Eighth Blackbird in the third floor gallery, which features live rehearsals by the group as well as videos and an interactive installation of how to interact with music. Mastry, the jaw-dropping retrospective of painter Kerry James Marshall, features 35 paintings from the artist's 40-year career and presents many large-scale pieces that showcase African American life. Marshall is considered one of the country's greatest living artists and the show reflects the complexity and innovation of his works.
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