Lucky for Los Gatans, jazz will be the focus of a new free music series as Jazz on the Plazz arrives at the Town Plaza. And with a lineup including Kenny Rankin, Danny Hull and Kim Nalley, the series promises to be a sprightly blend of smooth tunes, bluesy jazz and scintillating swing that will effortlessly ease locals into a toe-tappin' Wednesday evening week after week.

Co-sponsored by the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce and the Los Gatos Rotary Morning Club, with the Los Gatos Weekly-Times as the presenting sponsor, the series kicks off with Kenny Rankin on July 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. A favorite in both jazz and pop music crowds, Rankin has for nearly four decades entertained audiences with his vocal range and guitar savvy.

Ideas for the Plazz series began to brew over a year ago, with a chance encounter between Los Gatos arts commissioner chairwoman and business owner Teri Hope and SVCN publisher David Cohen. Hope said she was looking for a new project, while Cohen was interested in becoming more involved with concerts in Los Gatos, suggesting jazz as the choice medium.

"We knew [the summer concert series] was outgrowing its location in the plaza, and we realized it was a real concern and something people felt very strongly about," Hope says. "We asked the merchants about a new concert series that was specific to our needs, including drawing a target audience we want at the time we want. Having a jazz series really hits our demographics, I think." She believes the jazz series will be more conducive to diners in the area, providing an evening event that unites the community in a pleasant summer setting.

Many shops and galleries will also extend their hours during the series and offer specials to sweeten the deal for jazz enthusiasts.

The series will run six consecutive Wednesday evenings beginning July 30. After Kenny Rankin, the performers will be blues powerhouse Kaye Bohler on Aug. 6; baritone Giacomo Gates on Aug. 13; sax ace Danny Hull with Clifford Coultier on Aug. 20; stylish jazz chanteuse Kim Nalley on Aug. 27; and honey-toned vocalist Jenna Mammina on Sept. 3. All shows will be held at the Town Plaza from 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.jazzontheplazz.com.