American Pianists Association Announces Aretha Franklin to Headline 2008 Kroger Indy Jazz Fest Presented by Coca-Cola

INDIANAPOLIS, IN. (Top40 Charts/ American Pianists Association) - The American Pianists Association (APA) announces "The Queen of Soul," Aretha Franklin will perform Saturday at the 2008 Kroger Indy Jazz Fest presented by Coca-Cola, which will be held June 13-15 at Military Park in downtown Indianapolis.

The Indy Jazz Fest is known for bringing in national, regional and local live acts to the city of Indianapolis. Franklin performed at the Indy Jazz Fest back in 2002 and APA is bringing her back to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the festival.

"For the 10th anniversary of the festival, we are indeed doing a retrospective of sorts. We like to think of it as along the lines of combining the "old with the new," said Joel Harrison, APA artistic director. "We will be featuring some great artists from the past 10 years, some who have been here before and a few young and exciting emerging artists."

The APA has met its first fundraising goal of $425,000 on the total goal of $600,000. The APA has set April 1 as the date to raise the remaining $175,000. APA is thrilled that Kroger has not only stepped up as the title sponsor, but also is bringing Coca-Cola on as the presenting sponsor.

"I am glad that Indianapolis is host to a cultural event that brings people from all walks of life together to enjoy music," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "It is important that our community continues to support the arts in Indianapolis. Kroger, Coca-Cola and the rest of the sponsors are great examples for other businesses and organizations."