Simon & Garfunkel Booked For Jazz & Heritage

The duo’s appearance will be their only U.S. performance in 2010, according to festival organizers.

“For Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel to agree to come together and create this historic Simon & Garfunkel concert for our festival is not only a great honor, but it will bring to all who attend the rarest opportunity to experience the magic of one of America’s greatest musical institutions,” Jazz & Heritage producer/director Quint Davis said.

The addition of Simon & Garfunkel to this year’s Jazz & Heritage Festival indicates organizers know no bounds when it comes to booking the names needed to sell tickets. Even without today’s S&G announcement, the festival’s list of artists is astounding, with bands ranging from Pearl Jam to The Allman Brothers Band to Widespread Panic to The Black Crowes and artists from every genre, including Jeff Beck, Van Morrison, Elvis Costello, Jonny Lang, Aretha Franklin and Drake.

For many music fans wondering where their faves will be from April 23 to May 2, the most obvious answer is they’re in New Orleans at Jazz Fest.

While this will be the first time Simon & Garfunkel have ever performed at the yearly festival, Simon is no stranger to the event – as a fan as well as a performer.

He traveled there in the ‘80s to see The Neville Brothers. As an artist, Simon’s appearances include a performance of his Graceland album as well as performing a closing-day set at the first post-Katrina Jazz & Heritage.

“Over the years I’ve always enjoyed performing at Jazz Fest,” Simon said. “Everyone connected with the festival, and in particular Quint Davis, has created an atmosphere that is both musical and enjoyable. I am looking forward to the opportunity to perform with my old friend Art Garfunkel at this year’s festival.”

Tickets are available now. A limited number of discount ticket packages, including tickets to each day of a particular weekend are also available. Ticket packages for the first weekend are priced at $120 while second weekend packages are selling for $160.

The festival is also offering three different VIP ticket packages. The Big Chief VIP Experience provides special viewing access at most stages; the Grand Marshal VIP Pass provides up-close access to the three major stages and the Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP Pass provides special covered seating at the Acura Stage audience area.

Of course, supplies are limited. For more information about the 41st Jazz & Heritage Festival, please click here for the event’s Web site.