Popular New England music educator, performer and recording artist John McKenna brings  his jazz quartet to the King Park Gazebo in Newport on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 3 to 6 p.m.

John McKenna, a notable saxophonist, composer and teacher at the University of Rhode Island, Umass Dartmouth, Roger Williams University and CCRI, has toured major festivals in the U.S. and Europe with artists like Joe Lovano. McKenna has recorded on numerous albums, including Larry Goldings Big Stuff (Warner Bros.) that also featured Bill Stewart, Kurt Rosenwinkle and Idris Muhammad. John has three recordings under his own name; the most recent is “Portraits,” featuring Bruce Barth, Anthony Santor and Victor Lewis. John McKenna’s extensive experience and creative vision are reflected in his quartet’s engaging repertoire, which spans classic jazz standards to contemporary compositions.

The afternoon begins with a performance by acclaimed local musician Bill Killian, whose engaging style of acoustic guitar inspired by rhythms from around the world have earned him a well-deserved reputation in the Rhode Island music scene. Killian’s opening set will set the stage for an afternoon of musical brilliance.

NIMFest, short for Newport Independent Music Festival, has become a favorite summer concert series in Newport, celebrating local and regional artists in a family-friendly atmosphere. The event is free and open to the public, inviting music lovers from across Rhode Island to enjoy an afternoon of live music in one of Newport’s most scenic parks.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to fully enjoy the outdoor concert experience. The public is encouraged to carpool as parking is limited. Alcohol is not permitted in the park. All concerts are scheduled for 3 to 6 p.m., weather permitting.

For more information about NIMFest and to stay updated on the event schedule, visit www.NewEnglandMusic.org.The free outdoor concert series is made possible by the City of Newport, New England Music Organization and North End Entertainment thanks to a gift from the Hamilton Family Foundation.