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🎷 Jazz city groove

Franklin County • September 2, 2025

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Good morning, Franklin County. All that jazz isn't just a phrase in Columbus—it's our vibrant musical reality. The capital city's jazz scene is hitting all the right notes with standout musicians like Bobby Floyd, James Gaiters, and Byron Stripling performing regularly at venues from Dick's Den to the Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge. This thriving ecosystem has made Columbus a "soulful, swinging place" where live jazz can be experienced almost any night of the week, continuing a rich tradition that has launched numerous notable careers.

Among these jazz titans stands Vaughn Wiester, whose musical journey from high school band to founding the 22-piece Famous Jazz Orchestra has enriched Central Ohio for decades. Meanwhile, trumpet virtuoso Byron Stripling's remarkable path from classical student to artistic director of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra demonstrates how musical passion can transform careers. From local stages to international acclaim, these artists continue to ensure Columbus remains firmly on the national jazz map.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🎷 Columbus jazz scene thrives with ten standout musicians. The article profiles "Titans of Columbus Jazz" who contribute to the city's vibrant musical heritage, including organist Bobby Floyd, drummer James Gaiters, and trumpeter Byron Stripling. These artists perform regularly at local venues like Natalie's, the Blu Note Jazz Café, Dick's Den, and the Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge. Columbus has historically launched notable jazz careers while maintaining a community where live jazz can be enjoyed almost every night, making it a "soulful, swinging place" for jazz enthusiasts.

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🎷 Jazz trombonist Vaughn Wiester built a musical legacy in Columbus. The Famous Jazz Orchestra leader discovered his passion after his high school band director introduced him to Stan Kenton's music, forever changing his musical trajectory. After serving in the Navy and playing with various groups including Woody Herman, Wiester founded his 22-piece Famous Jazz Orchestra in 1992. The ensemble has performed at multiple venues across Central Ohio over the decades, recently finding a new home at Boulevard Presbyterian Church after leaving the Clintonville Woman's Club. "The universe has always acted on behalf of the Famous Jazz Orchestra," Wiester says.

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🎺 Byron Stripling's trumpet transformed him from classical student to jazz titan. Growing up in Georgia, he was inspired by his father's love of music and records from jazz legends like Louis Armstrong. Though he initially pursued classical trumpet at Eastman School of Music, a chance connection with Clark Terry led to Stripling joining Lionel Hampton's band. His career skyrocketed as he performed with jazz greats Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie before becoming artistic director of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra in 2002. Today, he continues leading the CJO while also conducting orchestras in Pittsburgh and Milwaukee.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious Blacklick home premium district: This immaculate $519,900 Blacklick residence offers nearly 2,000 square feet of refined living space plus a finished basement, featuring four bedrooms, multiple upgrades including a new roof, and is located in the top-rated Gahanna Jefferson School District.
Real estate listing image Spacious bi-level near highways: This $377,500 bi-level home in The Glen features Hilliard schools, updated kitchen and bathrooms, luxury vinyl plank flooring, new carpet, a two-tier deck, and a fenced backyard in a convenient location near major highways.
Real estate listing image Rehab Ready Investment Opportunity: Priced at $125,000, this investment property requires a complete rehab. The home has three bedrooms, despite the auditors' website listing it with four.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎭 Sep. 4 - Live With Murph & Tye: Join short kings Murph & Tye at The Hashtag Comedy Club on September 4 for a freestyle comedy experience featuring top local talent. Laugh your way through this unique show at 1253 N High St!
🎭 Sep. 4 - Cleveland Comics Invade Columbus: Cleveland's wildest comics invade The Attic Comedy Club on September 4! Expect real-deal comedy chaos as Noah Ryan hosts this one-night-only showcase of high-level talent at 892 Oak St, Columbus.
🤠 Sep. 4 - Austin Martin & Herd: Stomp your boots to the authentic sounds of Austin Martin & The Herd at 6252 Busch Blvd on September 4. This Nashville-inspired country act brings fresh energy to Columbus with their unique musical vision.
🎭 Sep. 5 - Friday Night Comedy Showcase: Laugh your Friday night away at the King Art Complex's showcase! Join comedians from NYC and LA at The Maroon Culture Lab on Mt Vernon Ave for a night of hilarity on September 5.
🧘 Sep. 6 - Body Mind Spirit Expo: Explore wellness and healing at the Body Mind Spirit Expo! Discover the latest in medical and pharmaceutical innovations at Taft Coliseum on September 6th. A transformative experience for mind, body, and soul.
🎭 Sep. 06 - Columbus Comedy Showcase: Laugh until your sides hurt at the Columbus Comedy Festival Saturday Night Showcase! Catch hilarious comedians from NYC and LA at The Maroon Culture Lab on Sep 6, located in the King Art Complex.
🏮 Sep. 6 - Columbus Water Lantern Festival: Light up the night at the Columbus Water Lantern Festival! Join the community celebration with food trucks, music, and activities at Franklin Park Adventure Center on Sep 6. A magical evening awaits!
🍻 Sep. 7 - Family Fun Oktoberfest: Raise your steins at Columbus Oktoberfest! The Ohio Expo Center transforms into a Bavarian paradise on September 7, featuring the Bubble Run, contests, games, and authentic fun for the whole family.
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