West Hartford’s Blue Back Square will be filled with music on Sunday, Oct. 8, from 2-5 p.m.

Submitted

On Sunday, Oct. 8, WeHa United in Jazz will bring top jazz musicians to Blue Back Square for a day of music, engagement and education. The event is free and open to all.

Carl Carter is headlining the event and will be accompanied by special guest musicians. Carl has forged a career as diverse as his musical background, performing with an eclectic group of world-renowned R&B, jazz and rock artists. Carl’s Broadway credits include the Tony-winning hit musical “Come From Away,” the Tony-nominated hit show, “Disaster: The Musical,” “Holler if Ya Hear Me,” and Tony-nominated “Bring it On: The Musical.”

Attendees will have an opportunity to meet-and-greet professional musicians from 2 to 3 p.m. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and to learn about their careers.

Then at 3 p.m., the show begins. Carl Carter and special guests will play until 4:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

WeHa United in Jazz is funded through a grant given to the Bridge Family Center’s “Turning Points” program for at-risk youth and young adults. “The goal of the program is to connect youth with their greater community and help youth improve their academic performance and avoid high-risk behavior.”

During the event, West Hartford’s Prevention Partnership will share resources and information.

Primary event organizers are West Hartford Police Department and WHAASCO (West Hartford African American Social & Cultural Organization).

“This is an event where police and the community can come together to hang out, have a good time, and forge relationships in a non-traditional way,” said Police Chief Vern Riddick, Jr.

“WHAASCO believes good relationships are built when police and residents interact one-on-one, where we can get to know each other individually and develop healthy relationships,” said Earl Exum, president of WHAASCO.

Al Taylor, president of ACT Jams Productions, and Founder & Chairman of the Brass City Jazz Fest in Waterbury, said, “I am passionate about music and I understand the vision of WeHa United in Jazz. I am excited to bring top musicians like Carl Cater to West Hartford.”

Schedule of Events

2-3 p.m.: Meet & Greet with musicians

2-5 p.m.: Prevention Partnership resources

3-4:30 p.m.: Jazz Concert

4:30-5 p.m.: Closing remarks & music

Parking is available in the Isham and Memorial municipal garages, Town Hall municipal lot, and on street. Standard fees apply.

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