JAZZ UNDER THE STARS: Blue Curtain returns to Pettoranello Gardens with a free concert by the Philadelphia Jazz Orchestra, led by Joe Bongiovi, on July 17.

Blue Curtain, a Princeton summertime tradition, returns to the Pettoranello Gardens Amphitheater for a free concert featuring the Philadelphia Jazz Orchestra on Saturday, July 17 at 7 p.m. The rain/heat date is July 18 at 7 p.m.

The Philadelphia Jazz Orchestra (PJO), under the direction of Joe Bongiovi, is an all-star big band comprised of the best high school and college jazz musicians in the Philadelphia and New Jersey region. In addition to the performances both in the United States and Europe, PJO offers an educational jazz camp for middle school and high school students. Following its Blue Curtain appearance, PJO will embark on a two-week tour in Italy. PJO plays regularly on Wednesdays at Chris’ Jazz Café in Philadelphia.

“Princeton’s beautiful Pettoranello Gardens is a powerful setting for a transformative musical experience on a warm summer evening. We look forward to presenting live music again,” said Stephen Allen, co-founder, with Curtis Webster, of Blue Curtain.

Co-sponsored by the Princeton Recreation Department, Blue Curtain is a New Jersey nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting the highest quality of culturally diverse music and dance to the audiences in the Princeton area.

Concert-goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Pettoranello Gardens is located in Community Park North, Route 206 and Mountain Avenue.  Visit info@bluecurtain.org for more information.