Chaye Alexander and the CMA team up for free outdoor concert series
May 9, 2019
Live at Boyd Plaza kicks off with electric violinist JaVonne Jones
The Columbia Museum of Art announced a new partnership with Chaye Alexander — creative producer, former broadcast talent, and owner of the popular performance venue Chayz Lounge — for a dynamic, free outdoor concert series on the beautiful new Boyd Plaza. Chaye Alexander presents Live at Boyd Plaza kicks off Sunday, May 26, with a season premiere featuring electric violinist extraordinaire JaVonne Jones.
“When I first met Chaye, I was immediately impressed by her passion for bringing unique performance experiences to the Midlands,” says Joelle Ryan-Cook, CMA deputy director & director of external affairs. “The Knight Cities and Connected Communities grants gave us the opportunity to invite Chaye to bring to life her vision for a vibrant summer outdoor series in the heart of the Main Street District. What better way to do that then to launch it on a long holiday weekend?”
For decades Alexander has provided avenues for musicians to be seen and heard. She began her career as a radio personality in New York City, where she won the hearts of listeners with her musical eclecticism and warm, charismatic demeanor. Her success in radio led to opportunities in television production, where she worked both behind and in front of the camera. Alexander continues to shine light on talent each week via the sold-out shows at Chayz Lounge, making her uniquely qualified to bring this concert series to life.
“I’m excited about the Live at Boyd Plaza concert series,” says Alexander. “It allows me to feature some amazingly talented musicians who will deliver crowd-favorites Latin, reggae, and a blend of classical and soul tunes set to jazz.”
Violinist Jones is a talented and passionate musician known for mesmerizing performances of jazz, soul, and popular music with hints of classical undertones. Hailing from Augusta, Georgia, she began her venture as a musician at the age of 9. Performing nationwide both as a solo artist and with her band, Jones has opened for entertainment and gospel giants including Rickey Smiley, Tamela Mann, and Dottie Peoples.
“These are not the sit and tap your feet type of concerts,” says Alexander. “Each event is designed to have you dancing. Get ready for good times on a Sunday evening at Boyd Plaza.”
Free.
Cash bar. Food available for purchase.
Galleries open and free 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Concert 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Upcoming Live at Boyd Plaza dates:
- Saxophonist Luis Alas — Sunday, June 23, 2019
- Bassist Mike Frost — Sunday, September 22, 2019
This project is supported by a grant from the Knight Foundation Fund and by a Connected Communities grant at Central Carolina Community Foundation.
For more information, visit columbiamuseum.org.
