By Christian Coffman

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — The Natchez Festival of Music kicks off its 27th season on Saturday.

Opening night will feature the best of the Mississippi blues and will star Vasti Jackson.

Festival President Mary Lessley said Saturday night’s event is part of a wide-ranging lineup of musical offerings.

“We’ll have a very diverse array of music, such as blues, jazz, gospel, rock and roll, country, classical and opera music during the festival,” Lessley said.

The opening performance is at the Natchez Performing Arts Center on 64 Homochitto St. The performance is at 7 p.m. but the Grape Escape club room will be open at 6 p.m.

Lessley said Jackson is a blues icon who has been recognized by the Mississippi Arts Commission. 

“We’re delighted to be able to have Malcom White, the executive director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, come,” Lessley said. “(The commission) has been very supportive of the Natchez Festival of Music and of Natchez itself.”

Adult tickets are $25 and students, children and those in the military with active ID are $10. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at natchezfestivalofmusic.com.

Lessley said she, Artistic Director Jay Dean and festival board members spend most of the year setting the schedule, auditioning and selecting musicians and preparing for the month of events.

“It’s a lot of organizing and a lot of detail,” Lessley said. “It takes the whole year to get everything in place. Once it starts Saturday, it will be a blast.”

The festival will continue through May 27.