Get Jazzy with it: Sutphin Boulevard BID to promote commerce through music

The Afro-Latineers cracked jokes before starting their high energy set. Eagle photo by Rachel Vick.

By Rachel Vick

As The Afro-Latineers are setting up their instruments, as the sounds of fusion jazz drift through Sutphin Boulevard. Calling to pedestrians before the performance even starts, they begin their set as the crowd grows in size.

Some strangers danced with each other, some danced alone. Everyone passing by had a smile on their face.

The Sutphin Boulevard Business Improvement District is hosting their Summer Jazz Concert Series in front of the Queens County Supreme courthouse, bringing music and, hopefully, business to the community. 

Glenn Greenridge, Executive Director of the BID, explains that part of the project’s goal is to promote visitor and patron presence in the neighborhood. If they stop to enjoy the music, instead of rushing on with their days, they’re more likely to stop and support the local businesses.

Duly aware of the need for growth and keeping up with the times, they know that the community can’t afford a lapse in diligence.

“We’re trying to stay ahead of the gentrification so local businesses don’t get pushed out and so that they stay relevant,” Greenridge said. “You have to do that.”

During the colder months, the performance moves indoors to the AirTrain stop, where they have over 30 performances. Greenridge describes the summer sets as sort of an “all-star” lineup, pulling favorites from the past season.

This is the second year of the summer program, which sponsors performances every Thursday from 12-1 p.m. through August.