Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society will host free concerts, a membership party and a monthly jazz jam through Dec. 18.

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society will host three jazz and blues events in Las Cruces this month as part of its holiday season programming.

The first event, Swingin’ in the Holidays, will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Atkinson Recital Hall, 1075 N. Horseshoe St. The Border Jazz Orchestra, a roughly 20-member ensemble affiliated with the society, will perform jazz holiday standards and other selections with featured vocalist Candice Reyes of El Paso. The concert is free and open to the public, though donations are encouraged.

The society’s annual Membership Holiday Party will follow from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Alma D’Arte Charter High School, 402 W. Court Ave. Members and their guests are invited to attend a potluck social, followed by music from the Candice Reyes Quintet. MVJBS President Carol Mertensmeyer will also share an update on the organization’s recent activities.

The month wraps up with the society’s regular jazz jam session from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Boba Cafe and Cabaret, 1900 S. Espina St. Musicians of all experience levels are invited to perform or attend. Those interested in playing or singing with the house band are encouraged to sign up in advance by emailing MVJBSjazzjam@gmail.com.

All three events are open to the community.