How lucky are we? Last month it was announced that after 36 years, due to the rough economy, New York City would be losing its jazz festival. No summer festival in the Big Apple, but after seven great years, we've still got ours in Rochester.

And it's starting with a bang. I know Smokey Robinson is not exactly jazz (although songs like "Crusin" come pretty close), but he's still one of the greatest writers and singers of the last half-century, and I can't wait to see him.

The international aspect of the festival is especially strong this year and I'm looking forward to hearing Peter King, a phenomenal sax player. If you've never heard his name it's because he's spent most of his career in England.

I know I will hear way too much great music in the next nine days, but in a strange way what I'm looking forward to most about the festival is the feeling on the streets of downtown Rochester, the electricity in the air. For a lot of music lovers, this is as good as it gets.

Oh, one more thing: Come on up, New Yorkers. We'd love to have you.