April is celebrated nationally as Jazz Appreciation Month, an initiative of the Smithsonian Institution and recognized by Congress. Often called America’s classical music, Jazz is also celebrated locally with events and art openings, including the updated and expanded exhibit of Jazz-oriented paintings by Marguerite Bride. Jazz Visions II will be on display in the Lobby Gallery at Hotel on North during the months of April and May. There are approximately 25 paintings in this exhibit, watercolors on paper and canvas, plus a few fine art reproductions. The collection of paintings has since expanded to include portraits of known and loved jazz greats (Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Phil Woods, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, and others), local and famous haunts (Mission, The Apollo, Bohemian Cavers, Cotton Club) and even paintings of many of our local talented jazz musicians. Additionally, first time offered, the original painting called “The Master’s Hands” personally signed by Dave Brubeck during his last visit to the Berkshires is included in this show. The profits from the sale of this painting will benefit Berkshires Jazz, Inc.