By Merle Exit
Although the actual day is still more than a month away, Louis Armstrong’s birthday festivities got under way this past weekend and continue through the Fourth of July.
Born in August, Armstrong adopted July 4 as his birthday and his adopted hometown of Corona was the site of a celebration of music devoted to Satchmo Sunday, featuring two concerts held in the shadows of the iconic Unisphere.
In case you missed the performances, you still have time to join in the birthday party.
The Louis Armstrong House Museum 34-56 107th St. in Corona once again hosts its “Hot Jazz Cool Garden Summer Concert Series.”
This Friday, at 2 pm, Emily Asher’s Garden Party, led by trombonist Asher, kicks things off with its version of red hot New York City jazz.
Plus, because it is Armstrong’s birthday as well as July 4, a soul food luncheon, complete with Armstrong’s famous red beans and rice along with sweet tea, will be served. That will be followed by birthday cake.
Other concerts this summer include the Bria Skonberg Quartet July 19 and Gordon Au and the Grand Street Stompers Aug. 16.
For tickets and information go to www.louisarmstronghouse.org.
