Greg Johnson's last day in State College will be spent partying with a couple dozen friends and fans.

Johnson, a prominent local jazz musician and former Penn State student, is moving to Colorado later this month to pursue a jazz studies major at the University of Northern Colorado and to check out Denver's music scene.

Before leaving, though, SoZo organizer Will Snyder wants Johnson and his fans to have one last hurrah. Johnson will perform in a farewell show from 8 to 10 p.m, Friday, Aug. 15 at SoZo's, 256 E. Beaver Ave.

"It's pretty cool. It shows me after all these years that people really care," Johnson said.

Johnson has spent about 14 years in State College and attended State College Area High School.

"It's where I grew up for the most part. It's the place I developed everything that I worked on," the saxophonist said.

Johnson also described the show as a party, and compared it to a "variety show," because bands and musicians he has worked with will be there, including Lemonsoul and Outgroove.

Outgroove guitarist George Malek, Penn State Class of 2007, went to high school with Johnson. Malek was a senior when Johnson was a freshman, and Malek and Johnson didn't talk much at the time, Malek said.

About three years ago, the two met again and began playing together, he said.

Malek added he will miss Johnson, but understands why his friend needs to leave.

"It's good for him, but it'll be sad to see him go," Malek said. "He's done a lot for this town and the [music] scene -- he's a phenomenal talent and a phenomenal player."

SoZo's Snyder came up with the idea for the farewell show.

"I want the atmosphere to be more party oriented," Snyder said, adding it's a "going away party," from SoZo's.

Johnson has had great participation at SoZo, included performances with his bands and monthly Jazz Jams. He's appeared at almost every one since January 2007, Snyder said.

"I'm going to miss him," Snyder said. "He's so young and talented. I'm excited to see what he's going to be doing in the future."