If you live in Branford, come summertime, there's no better place to spend a Thursday night than at a free "Branford Jazz on the Green" concert. On March 30, the folks who've brought so many Branford Jazz greats to the Green will pair up with a Branford Jazz series sponsor, Stony Creek Brewery, for a benefit to help build a brand-new Branford Jazz Scholarship.

Tickets are limited and on sale now for the special night at Stony Creek Brewery (Wed. March 30, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.).  The night will feature live music from local jazz artists and, of course, premium crafted beer. Ticket holders receive an exclusive pint glass and their first beer free. 

"When we started this series over eight years ago, I had envisioned being able to get to a point where I could offer a student who had a passion for Jazz a scholarship," said committee member/Branford Jazz co-founder Charlotte Mattei."This event held at the brewery will be used to begin that fund and to allow us to start the scholarship fund."

The Branford Jazz on the Green series began in 2009, born out of the efforts of residents wanting to take Branford Recreation Department's free Sunday afternoon concerts to the next level. Under the auspices of Branford's Recreation board, the Branford Jazz committee was formed with volunteer members. Branford Recreation Department continues to assist the program.

With sponsorship assists from local businesses and other local organizations, the Branford Jazz series has grown to feature nine Thursday evening shows from mid-June into August, drawing big names and rising stars.  The 2016 summer jazz series is already set to kick off Thurs. June 23; with consecutive Thursday night shows (6:30 - 8:30 p.m.) running through Aug. 18.  

The Branford Jazz Scholarship will help assist recipients who may not be able to afford an instrument, lessons, or schooling.

An evening of music featuring local jazz artists and premium crafted beer takes place at Stony Creek Brewery, 5 Indian Neck Ave., Branford; Wed. March 30, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. All proceeds benefit Branford Jazz Music Scholarship Fund. Limited tickets, $25, are available on-line now at www.branfordjazz.com or call Branford Recreation Department at (203) 488-8304.