JAZZ : Fullerton Arboretum Has Festival Down to an Art

The home-grown Orange County Art & Jazz Festival stands apart from most such shows.

To be held Saturday and Sunday at the Fullerton Arboretum, the festival features Southern California-based musicians, many with international reputations, playing in a setting that makes sites such as the Hollywood Bowl, home of the Playboy Jazz Festival, seem cold by comparison.

It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic place for a musical gathering. The main stage is framed by trees and set next to a small pond. Not far away, the front porch of a turn-of-the-century home makes an ideal stage for a Dixieland band. Interspersed, artists of all sorts display their wares. A variety of vegetation beckons visitors, who can stroll among the greenery between acts while children romp on the lawn.

The artists, about 50, are hand-picked by the festival arts committee and will offer for sale works including pottery, sculpture, photography, oil and watercolor painting and handmade jewelry. Art activities for children will also be available.

This year’s musical lineup boasts an impressive, well-rounded cast.

The Cal State Fullerton Big Band with guest professionals trumpeter Jeff Bunnell and saxophonist Eric Marienthal--known for his association with Chick Corea as well as a host of albums under his own name for the GRP label--opens Saturday’s festivities. Bunnell and Marienthal return with the festival’s All-Star Band, a group that also includes pianist Bill Cunliffe (winner of the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition), bassist Dave Carpenter and onetime Bill Evans drummer Joe LaBarbera.

Also on tap Saturday are pianist-vocalist Yve Evans and the New Edge Band with Ron Kobiyashi, among others.

Sunday’s bill includes the Fullerton College Big Band with guests Greg Vail and Tony Guerrero, jazz harpist Lori Andrews, the Wendell Kelly Sextet, the Tom Hynes Project, the Delta Ramblers and the Backdoor Blues Band.

Throw into the mix food vendors (no food or drink can be brought to the grounds) and hot-air balloon rides, and you’ve got an outdoor event tailored for the whole family.

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What: The Orange County Art & Jazz Festival.

When: Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days.

Where: The Fullerton Arboretum, 1900 Associated Road.

Whereabouts: Take the Orange (57) Freeway to Yorba Linda Boulevard and head west. Turn left at Associated onto the Cal State Fullerton campus and follow signs to parking area.

Wherewithal: Daily admission is $7, half price for seniors and students with ID. Children 12 and under free.

Where to call: (714) 541-2787.