Agbara is the West African Yoruba word for vigor, energy, and power. The Yoruba people and their musical aesthetics are a source of many of the aspects of “Latin Jazz." In this performance, Master percussionist Matt Henry debuts his new sextet. It embraces the Agbara spirit and features Matt and five more incredible jazz musicians from St. Louis, including: Aadron (Uh-dare-run) “Pops” Jackson on piano, Bernard Terry on bass, Kwane Johnson on saxophone, Duston Shrum playing trumpet and flugel Horn, and Desire “Des” Jones on drums with Matt Henry playing congas, bongos, and percussion.
Listen at 8 p.m. on 90.7 KWMU
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Jazz St. Louis is very excited for you to experience The Groove Master, Herlin Riley, and his extraordinary abilities live and direct!
Herlin Riley, the longtime drummer for the legendary Ahmad Jamal and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, now leads two groups, his quintet, and the New Orleans Groove Masters. For these performances with Jazz St. Louis, Riley will deliver a new experience for each set, with a wide historical range of music that he refers to as a "living, breathing art form."
Since coming of age in the nurturing environment of a very musical family and a distinguished lineage of drummers, the lifelong New Orleanian emerged from the era of all things rhythmic in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, to enliven the ensembles of such influential and demanding improvisers as pianist Ahmad Jamal and trumpeter Wynton Marsalis through his commanding yet elegant rhythmic presence. Riley has also performed with such luminaries as Boz Scaggs, Dr. Lonnie Smith, George Benson, Dr. John, and Paul Simon, just to name a few.
Many comment on Riley’s abilities on tambourine, the origins of which began in the church. “I got into the tambourine as a young kid in New Orleans,” Riley told Jazz St. Louis. "We had a spiritual church and I watched the sisters play the tambourine and I learned to do it myself. When I joined Wynton’s band, he encouraged us to bring all of our experiences into the music. Then he started writing pieces for the tambourine.”
❝A master of color, nuance, and dynamics, Riley mines his drums and cymbals for every possible timbre, often making somewhat unconventional combinations seem perfectly natural.❞
— All About Jazz
❝The most important thing about the music is the truth and honesty. I live in the moment so each show will be different. I’m looking forward to five days of having fun.❞
— Herlin Riley
Step into the vibrant soundscape of the Jazz St. Louis Big Band, led by acclaimed saxophonist and composer Victor Goines. In celebration of Women’s History Month, this special performance features the sensational vocalist Nicole Henry, whose captivating voice brings warmth, power, and soul to every note.
Goines presents fresh, imaginative arrangements of Henry’s beloved songs, creating an unforgettable musical experience that honors her artistry while pushing creative boundaries. Prepare to be swept away by this dynamic collaboration—a true celebration of talent, innovation, and heart.
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Vocalist, bassist, and composer Janet Evra brings her signature Indie Bossa style to the stage—a breezy blend of Brazilian rhythm, jazz harmony, and indie-pop flair. Originally from England, Evra has toured throughout Europe and the U.S., and was a Kranzberg Arts Foundation Artist in Residence from 2019 to 2020. Now based in St. Louis, she continues to share her distinctive sound with audiences worldwide.
For this performance, Evra is joined by guitarist Will Buchanan, pianist Adam Maness, drummer Demarius Hicks, and saxophonist/EWI artist Kendrick Smith. With grace, groove, and a global sensibility, Evra leads the band with her voice—and her bass—at the heart of it all.
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A dynamic quintet of St. Louis’ finest takes the stage to honor the legendary Miles Davis—Alton-born, East St. Louis-raised, and one of the most visionary artists in jazz history. From cool to modal to electric, Davis redefined the music with every era.
Led by pianist Antonio Foster, this all-star ensemble features trumpeter Brady Lewis, saxophonist Bennett Wood, bassist Andrew Binder, and drummer Ben Dicke. Together, they celebrate the life and legacy of Miles with fearless improvisation, deep grooves, and boundless creativity across two nights and four unforgettable sets.
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Born in Malaysia, raised in Western Australia, and now living in New York City, bassist Linda May Han Oh brings her dynamic live show to the Bistro stage for this unforgettable performance!
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Sara Gazarek is a Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist. She’s been named Outstanding Jazz vocalist by the Ella Fitzgerald Foundation. Sara is a passionate educator who has travelled the world to teach, and perform, at educational camps and music festivals.
For this concert, she is performing with Miro Sprague- Piano, Alex Boneham- Bass, Jonathan Pinson- Drums and Lenard Simpson on Alto Sax.
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Celebrate fusion at its finest with Weather Forever! Zeb Briskovich (bass), Miles Vandiver (drums), Adaron “Pops” Jackson (keys), Eric Slaughter (guitar), and Jason Swagler (sax), make up this all-star band created to pay tribute to legendary fusion groups Weather Report and Return to Forever
Kim Fuller (vocals) invites you into an evening of timeless elegance and vocal brilliance. With deep roots in gospel, R&B, blues, and jazz, her sound is both personal and powerful—born from a lifelong love of the music she calls her first affair. She’s shared the stage with legends like Smokey Robinson, Pieces of a Dream, and Ramsey Lewis, while paying homage to the great women of jazz through unforgettable tributes.
A celebrated voice in St. Louis, Kim also teaches jazz voice at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and leads “The Jazz Story,” an educational program inspiring young audiences through America’s art form. Whether performing standards or contemporary favorites, Kim Fuller transforms each song into a soulful journey—a radiant celebration of jazz in all its glory.
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The title Black, Brown and Beige refers to the three movements of this suite. Each one representing a period in black history:
From jazz radio to neighborhood cookouts, Detroit native James Carter caught the sax bug early. Inspired by the soulful sonic landscape of previous organ trios, these sophisticated improvisers blend energetic solos with tender expressions, assuring a delightful experience in the 200-seat Bistro.
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Jeremy Davenport infuses a unique style of storytelling with original lyrics and music, creating not only a modern edge but also a feeling reminiscent of the time when jazz was at its peak of popularity. Davenport, a St. Louis native, studied and played with members and guests of the St. Louis Symphony which included an early introduction to Wynton Marsalis. A member of Harry Connick, Jr.’s big band for six years, Davenport now tours the world, plays regularly in New Orleans, and returns home annually for his tradition at Jazz St. Louis.
Born in Bali, Indonesia, Joey Alexander has been performing professionally since 2013 when Wynton Marsalis invited him to perform at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Gala. Alexander subsequently moved to New York City and released his debut album, My Favorite Things, in 2015 on Motéma Music, followed by three more on the label, a fifth on Verve as well as his Mack Avenue debut album, Origin, in 2022. Alexander’s albums have netted three GRAMMY® Award nominations: one for Best Jazz Instrumental Album (My Favorite Things) and two for Best Improvised Jazz Solo (“Giant Steps,” from My Favorite Things, and “Countdown” from the album of the same name), with My Favorite Things and Countdown securing the No. 1 spot on the Billboard jazz charts and Eclipse coming at No. 3.
Marques Carroll (trumpet), Greg Artry (drums), Julius Tucker (piano), Christian Dillingham (bass), and Marvin Truong (alto saxophone) form the Chicago-based Marques Carroll Quintet. A St. Louis native, Carroll is an Emmy Award winner, Grammy member, jazz educator, and former member of the legendary Count Basie Orchestra.
Join us as the JSL Big Band swings through Duke Ellington and Bill Strayhorn’s Nutcracker Suite — a dazzling reimagination of Tchaikovsky’s classic. From the sultry Sugar Rum Cherry to the upbeat Peanut Brittle Brigade, it’s holiday magic like you’ve never heard before. And that’s not all! There’s more sensational music to keep your spirits bright. That’s Next time on the Next Set from Jazz St. Louis
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Stefon Harris’ passionate artistry and astonishing virtuosity have propelled him to the forefront of the jazz scene. He is heralded as “one of the most important artists in jazz” by The Los Angeles Times and has been named Best Mallet Player eight times by the Jazz Journalist Association.
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Get in the holiday spirit with good vibes and great music as trombonist, sousaphonist, composer, and all-around virtuoso Cody Henry brings the holiday cheer that is perfect for your season.
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Throughout their storied 40-plus year history, Yellowjackets have consistently forged ahead in their evolving artistic statements. The band has recorded dozens of albums, been nominated for a vast array of GRAMMY® Awards, and has adventurously amplified the eclectic, electro-acoustic soundscape, creating a unique jazz sound since its fusion beginnings. Now the band returns to bring brilliance to the Bistro stage!
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American jazz trombonist, arranger, composer, band leader, and music educator Wycliffe Gordon will light up the Bistro stage! The Georgia-born trombonist also sings and plays didgeridoo, trumpet, soprano trombone, tuba, and piano. Wycliffe will be joined by Ehud Asherie on piano, Corcoran Holt on bass, Alvin Atkinson, Jr. on drums and vocals, and Adrian Cunningham on saxophone, flute, clarinet, and vocals. Make sure to catch these spirited performances that are sure to be bad to the bone!
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Keyon Harrold discusses samples from jazz classics that have gone on to have new life in a new genre. Harrold will explore how jazz songs have been interpolated into new works. The program includes a concert showcasing original jazz songs and how the samples were transformed into hip-hop.
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An unequivocal musical prodigy, singer-saxophonist-songwriter-composer and bandleader Grace Kelly has rocked the jazz world with sold-out concerts, 14 acclaimed albums and a resume that includes performing at the Hollywood Bowl as well as being part of the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert – all before reaching her mid-twenties. Revisit this amazing performance as we listen to Kelly’s dynamic saxophone stylings and captivating vocal tones.
Discover the rich, often overlooked history of “Latin Jazz” as we explore its Afro-Cuban roots and cultural significance. Join us for an enlightening discussion led by Dr. Andres Espinoza Agurto from Florida Atlantic University, accompanied by a performance from the Agbara Ensemble. Through the music of icons like Chico O’Farrill, Poncho Sanchez, Celia Cruz, Pedrito Martinez, and Dizzy Gillespie, we’ll celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of “Latin Jazz.” This event will delve into the historical and cultural forces that have shaped the genre, including its economic marginalization and the impact of racism on its development. Together, we aim to inspire a deeper, more inclusive understanding of “Latin Jazz” and its profound legacy.
Under the expert direction of Victor Goines, the Jazz St. Louis Big Band delivers electrifying performances built on custom arrangements crafted specifically for this 18-piece ensemble. From Count Basie inspired grooves to holiday favorites like Ellington and Strayhorn’s Nutcracker, these special engagements spotlight the band’s energy, precision, and deep musical history. The Jazz St. Louis Big Band returns to swing the night away with a concert experience that feels both timeless and fresh.
This February, don’t miss the chance to see a live concert honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring new music composed especially for the occasion. Special guest Wycliffe Gordon joins the ensemble, led by Jazz St. Louis President and CEO Victor Goines.
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Vocalist Samara Joy was the winner of the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and brought home the GRAMMY awards for "Best New Artist" and "Best Jazz Vocal Album" of 2023. Relive the voice as smooth as velvet in the intimacy of the Bistro!
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Don’t miss Dawn Weber’s innovative project, Dawn Weber & Swunk! This fresh endeavor unites the talents of trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and songwriter Dawn Weber with some of St. Louis’ finest jazz musicians. The new sound incorporates the three essential elements of jazz: swing, blues, and improvisation. But what exactly is “Swunk?” It’s a fusion of swing, blues, hip-hop, soul, and funk that creates a dynamic and distinctive musical experience. With St. Louis’ vibrant music scene as its backdrop, this original set was written in St. Louis, for St. Louis, and brought to life by St. Louis musicians. It promises to leave audiences with an uplifted spirit and a feeling of being more connected to the St. Louis music scene as they walk away with more groove in their step.
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New York-based Canadian-born singer, trumpeter, and songwriter Bria Skonberg has stormed onto the jazz scene with her smoky vocals, blistering trumpet, and compelling compositions and arrangements. The Juno Award winner has sung the music of Aretha Franklin alongside Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child, played with U2 at the iconic Apollo Theater, sat in with the Dave Matthews Band, was a featured guest with Jon Batiste, performed as part of The Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour, and sang the National Anthem at Madison Square Garden for a NY Rangers game.
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Matthew Whitaker’s love for playing music began at age 3 after his grandfather gave him a small Yamaha keyboard. At 9, Matthew began teaching himself how to play the Hammond B3 organ. Four years later, he became the youngest artist to be endorsed by Hammond—in its 80+ year history. He was also named a Yamaha Artist at 15, becoming the youngest musician to join the stellar group of jazz pianists.
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Join Jazz St. Louis for a special Whitaker Jazz Speaks event showcasing the indelible imprint that women have made on America’s original art form. Jazz St. Louis President & CEO Victor Goines will be moderating a discussion and Q&A with Jo Ann Daugherty, Mimi Jones, Tina Raymond, and St. Louis’ own Dawn Weber!
These accomplished musicians will also be performing:
Pianist, conductor, musical director, recording artist, composer and arranger Jo Ann Daugherty loves making all kinds of music. She recently returned to Chicago after touring the US as Music Director/Conductor of SIX the Musical’s first national tour. Her work in the jazz world has included performing at clubs and festivals throughout the United States.
Bassist, vocalist, producer, label owner, and now filmmaker, Mimi Jones has reigned supreme, as a side woman to an impressive coterie of musicians and as a leader with three albums on her own Hot Tone Music label. Born Miriam Sullivan in New York City to parents from Barbados, she was raised in the Bronx. Jones took up the guitar at the age of twelve, studying classical guitar with her first music instructor, James Bartow, at the Harlem School of the Arts.
A unique voice in the Los Angeles contemporary improvised music scene, Tina Raymond blends traditional jazz vocabulary with African polyrhythm and classical percussion technique. She performs, adjudicates, and presents workshops world wide at venues, festivals, and conventions, and has shared the stage with many jazz luminaries.
Dawn Weber has a background that includes extensive training in both classical trumpet and flugelhorn, as well as jazz. The St. Louis-based trumpeter is known as a prolific songwriter, stylish vocalist, and for having a mesmerizing, high-energy stage presence.
Luciana Souza is a transcendent vocalist and composer blending jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and poetry. With seven Grammy nominations and collaborations with legends like Herbie Hancock, she crafts soulful, boundary-crossing music celebrated worldwide for its beauty, depth, and emotional storytelling.
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Kandace Spring’s latest album, “The Women Who Raised Me,” is her loving tribute to the great female singers who inspired her to begin her journey towards becoming one of the premier jazz/soul vocalists of our time. Featuring her unique interpretations of songs influential to her while growing up in Tennessee, Springs covers such classic icons as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Carmen McRae, through 60’s legends Nina Simone and Dusty Springfield, and up to modern masters such as Sade and Lauryn Hill.
Like Miles, all alumni of Juilliard, Aaron Diehl, Sharel Cassity, Dominick Farinacci, Aaron Kimmel, Yasushi Nakamura, and Jon Irabagon join forces to pay tribute to the most celebrated and recognized recording in the history of jazz: Kind of Blue. This powerful sextet brings artistry, reverence, and fresh energy to Miles Davis’s 1959 masterpiece.
Interest in more Miles Davis? We’re celebrating Davis’s centennial year throughout the season, culminating in our Miles in May celebration.
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This explosive four-piece outfit draws upon jazz, funk, fusion, gospel, and R&B repertoires to deliver a powerful and unapologetic sound that excites and thrills audiences. When this band hits the stage, there are no boundaries. The only guarantee is a night of world-class music that is Good 4 the Soul.
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They don’t get together much anymore, but when they do, you’d better reinforce the walls because the joint will be swinging’! Bassist Christian McBride, pianist Benny Green, and drummer Gregory Hutchinson are among the most respected and well-loved purveyors of the modern American music we call jazz. This special engagement brings the three long-time musical compadres together to pay tribute to their mentor, legendary bassist Ray Brown. The joy will be infectious when this trio hits the stage, and we invite you to sit at the table of swing!
rebroadcast
Agbara is the West African Yoruba word for vigor, energy, and power. The Yoruba people and their musical aesthetics are a source of many of the aspects of “Latin Jazz." In this performance, Master percussionist Matt Henry debuts his new sextet. It embraces the Agbara spirit and features Matt and five more incredible jazz musicians from St. Louis, including: Aadron (Uh-dare-run) “Pops” Jackson on piano, Bernard Terry on bass, Kwane Johnson on saxophone, Duston Shrum playing trumpet and flugel Horn, and Desire “Des” Jones on drums with Matt Henry playing congas, bongos, and percussion.
GRAMMY-nominated for Best Latin Jazz Album, The Rodriguez Brother’s are an electrifying Latin-jazz duo that consistently ignite the audiences with their fiery grooves. Pianist Robert Rodriguez and trumpeter Michael Rodriguez showcase a powerful fusion of Afro-Cuban grooves and modern jazz.
Love what you hear? Don’t miss “The Rod Bros” live at Jazz St. Louis for a special season finale tribute to Miles Davis on June 24th - 27th. Titled “MILES 100: A Celebration in Afro-Cuban Jazz”, the result is a high-energy celebration that’s both soulful and exhilarating.
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NYC-based drummer/composer/teacher Allison Miller engages her deep roots in improvisation as a vehicle to explore all music. Described by critics as a Modern Jazz Icon in the Making, Miller has been named “Top 20 Jazz Drummers” in Downbeat Magazine, and her composition “Otis Was a Polar Bear” is on NPR’s list of The 200 Greatest Songs By 21st Century Women. She is also the first recipient of the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s Commissioning Grant.
Terell Stafford, acclaimed trumpet player based in New York, has been hailed as “one of the great players of our time, a fabulous trumpet player” by piano legend McCoy Tyner. Stafford is recognized as an incredibly gifted and versatile player, he combines a deep love of melody with his own brand of spirited and adventurous lyricism. An influential educator and talented musician, he is known for exceptionally expressive and intoxicating sound.
Listen to hear exactly why we chose him to honor Miles Davis on his centennial birthday. Join us May 26th for “Happy Birthday Miles”, as Terell Stafford and Tim Warfield lead a special four night concert series that pays tribute to Miles’s groundbreaking legacy.
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The Baylor Project, featuring Jean Baylor and St. Louis native Marcus Baylor. is a highly anticipated collaboration steeped in the heart and soul of jazz. As the children of pastors, Marcus and Jean’s musical roots were planted deep within the church, and it was there that the road was paved for the influence of gospel, blues, soul, and jazz to make its mark.
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Voodoo Miles is a bold reimagining of Miles Davis’ electric era, blending jazz, rock, funk, and psychedelic fusion into an electrifying sonic experience. Inspired by groundbreaking albums like Bitches Brew, On the Corner, and Agharta, this performance channels the raw energy, deep grooves, and boundary-pushing spirit that defined Davis’ most revolutionary period.
Led by a powerhouse ensemble of improvisers, Voodoo Miles captures the hypnotic rhythms, searing guitar lines, and otherworldly textures that made Miles’ electric years so influential. From deep, atmospheric explorations to pulse-pounding grooves, this performance is a high-voltage tribute to one of jazz’s most fearless innovators.
Shedrick Mitchell is a St. Louis native who grew up playing piano in church. Now a gifted composer, producer, and pianist, he has performed alongside icons such as Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houstin, Aretha Franklin, and Samara Joy. With roots in gospel, classical, and jazz piano, he blends these sounds to create a sound that is powerful and personal.
Shedrick returns June 17th- 21st for a headlining performance that connects with his St. Louis roots for a heartfelt and impactful set.
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Malena Smith uses her powerful, angelic vocals to inspire unity. The St. Louis singer and songwriter made the move to pursue her solo career after years of singing with the groups Vaughans and the Adam Maness Trio, with Bob DeBoo and the late, great Montez Coleman. Make sure to experience Malena as she celebrates the iconic singer, songwriter, pianist, composer, arranger, and civil rights activist, Nina Simone! Joining Malena will be Adaron “Pops” Jackson on piano, Emanuel Harrold on drums, Jahmal Nichols on bass, and Carlos “Scooter” Brown Jr. On saxophone.
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Soft-spoken by nature, South Florida-bred Roosevelt Collier does his hollering on the pedal steel guitar. Collier built his “sacred steel” guitar prowess with his family in the soul-shaking band The Lee Boys. On his own, he has become a sought-after talent both live and recorded.
He has performed with musical luminaries like The Allman Brothers, Buddy Guy, Los Lobos, Robert Randolph, and countless others. During his St. Louis debut in 2019, Collier became acquainted with the Funky Butt Brass Band. For this show, he enlisted the dynamic Funky Butt horns to join him on stage.
“Groove Master”, Herlin Riley, was the longtime drummer for the legendary Ahmad Jamal and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. He now leads a quintet, as well as the New Orleans Groove Masters. Riley is known to be a commanding yet elegant rhythmic performer, taking audiences on a journey with each set he delivers.
Associate Professor and Director of Jazz Studies at SIUE, St. Louis saxophone virtuoso Jason Swagler has decades of experience and artistry. From directing the Jazz St. Louis All-Stars to sharing the stage with legends like Joey DeFrancesco and Michael McDonald, Swagler’s sound is soulful, refined, and deeply rooted in the fabric of St. Louis jazz.
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Wycliffe Gordon (rebroadcast)
American jazz trombonist, arranger, composer, band leader, and music educator Wycliffe Gordon will light up the Bistro stage! The Georgia-born trombonist also sings and plays didgeridoo, trumpet, soprano trombone, tuba, and piano. Wycliffe will be joined by Ehud Asherie on piano, Corcoran Holt on bass, Alvin Atkinson, Jr. on drums and vocals, and Adrian Cunningham on saxophone, flute, clarinet, and vocals. Make sure to catch these spirited performances that are sure to be bad to the bone!
See More
Grace Kelly (rebroadcast)
An unequivocal musical prodigy, singer-saxophonist-songwriter-composer and bandleader Grace Kelly has rocked the jazz world with sold-out concerts, 14 acclaimed albums and a resume that includes performing at the Hollywood Bowl as well as being part of the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert – all before reaching her mid-twenties. Revisit this amazing performance as we listen to Kelly’s dynamic saxophone stylings and captivating vocal tones.
See More
JSL Big Band: 9-2025
Under the expert direction of Victor Goines, the Jazz St. Louis Big Band delivers electrifying performances built on custom arrangements crafted specifically for this 18-piece ensemble. From Count Basie inspired grooves to holiday favorites like Ellington and Strayhorn’s Nutcracker, these special engagements spotlight the band’s energy, precision, and deep musical history. The Jazz St. Louis Big Band returns to swing the night away with a concert experience that feels both timeless and fresh.
This February, don’t miss the chance to see a live concert honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring new music composed especially for the occasion. Special guest Wycliffe Gordon joins the ensemble, led by Jazz St. Louis President and CEO Victor Goines.
See More
Dawn Weber and Swunk (rebroadcast)
Don’t miss Dawn Weber’s innovative project, Dawn Weber & Swunk! This fresh endeavor unites the talents of trumpeter, vocalist, composer, and songwriter Dawn Weber with some of St. Louis’ finest jazz musicians. The new sound incorporates the three essential elements of jazz: swing, blues, and improvisation. But what exactly is “Swunk?” It’s a fusion of swing, blues, hip-hop, soul, and funk that creates a dynamic and distinctive musical experience. With St. Louis’ vibrant music scene as its backdrop, this original set was written in St. Louis, for St. Louis, and brought to life by St. Louis musicians. It promises to leave audiences with an uplifted spirit and a feeling of being more connected to the St. Louis music scene as they walk away with more groove in their step.
See More
Matthew Whitaker (rebroadcast)
Matthew Whitaker’s love for playing music began at age 3 after his grandfather gave him a small Yamaha keyboard. At 9, Matthew began teaching himself how to play the Hammond B3 organ. Four years later, he became the youngest artist to be endorsed by Hammond—in its 80+ year history. He was also named a Yamaha Artist at 15, becoming the youngest musician to join the stellar group of jazz pianists.
See More
Luciana Souza, featuring Romero Lubambo and Chico Pinheiro
Luciana Souza is a transcendent vocalist and composer blending jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and poetry. With seven Grammy nominations and collaborations with legends like Herbie Hancock, she crafts soulful, boundary-crossing music celebrated worldwide for its beauty, depth, and emotional storytelling.
See More
Kind of Blue Sextet
Like Miles, all alumni of Juilliard, Aaron Diehl, Sharel Cassity, Dominick Farinacci, Aaron Kimmel, Yasushi Nakamura, and Jon Irabagon join forces to pay tribute to the most celebrated and recognized recording in the history of jazz: Kind of Blue. This powerful sextet brings artistry, reverence, and fresh energy to Miles Davis’s 1959 masterpiece.
Interest in more Miles Davis? We’re celebrating Davis’s centennial year throughout the season, culminating in our Miles in May celebration.
See More
Remembering Ray Brown (rebroadcast)
They don’t get together much anymore, but when they do, you’d better reinforce the walls because the joint will be swinging’! Bassist Christian McBride, pianist Benny Green, and drummer Gregory Hutchinson are among the most respected and well-loved purveyors of the modern American music we call jazz. This special engagement brings the three long-time musical compadres together to pay tribute to their mentor, legendary bassist Ray Brown. The joy will be infectious when this trio hits the stage, and we invite you to sit at the table of swing!
See More
Whitaker Jazz Speaks: Midwestern Music Matters (rebroadcast)
Keyon Harrold discusses samples from jazz classics that have gone on to have new life in a new genre. Harrold will explore how jazz songs have been interpolated into new works. The program includes a concert showcasing original jazz songs and how the samples were transformed into hip-hop.
See More
Jazz Speaks: Mis-Education of Latin Jazz
Discover the rich, often overlooked history of “Latin Jazz” as we explore its Afro-Cuban roots and cultural significance. Join us for an enlightening discussion led by Dr. Andres Espinoza Agurto from Florida Atlantic University, accompanied by a performance from the Agbara Ensemble. Through the music of icons like Chico O’Farrill, Poncho Sanchez, Celia Cruz, Pedrito Martinez, and Dizzy Gillespie, we’ll celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of “Latin Jazz.” This event will delve into the historical and cultural forces that have shaped the genre, including its economic marginalization and the impact of racism on its development. Together, we aim to inspire a deeper, more inclusive understanding of “Latin Jazz” and its profound legacy.
See More
Samara Joy (rebroadcast)
Vocalist Samara Joy was the winner of the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and brought home the GRAMMY awards for "Best New Artist" and "Best Jazz Vocal Album" of 2023. Relive the voice as smooth as velvet in the intimacy of the Bistro!
See More
Bria Skonberg (rebroadcast)
New York-based Canadian-born singer, trumpeter, and songwriter Bria Skonberg has stormed onto the jazz scene with her smoky vocals, blistering trumpet, and compelling compositions and arrangements. The Juno Award winner has sung the music of Aretha Franklin alongside Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child, played with U2 at the iconic Apollo Theater, sat in with the Dave Matthews Band, was a featured guest with Jon Batiste, performed as part of The Monterey Jazz Festival on Tour, and sang the National Anthem at Madison Square Garden for a NY Rangers game.
See More
Jazz Speaks Women in Jazz (rebroadcast)
Join Jazz St. Louis for a special Whitaker Jazz Speaks event showcasing the indelible imprint that women have made on America’s original art form. Jazz St. Louis President & CEO Victor Goines will be moderating a discussion and Q&A with Jo Ann Daugherty, Mimi Jones, Tina Raymond, and St. Louis’ own Dawn Weber!
These accomplished musicians will also be performing:
Pianist, conductor, musical director, recording artist, composer and arranger Jo Ann Daugherty loves making all kinds of music. She recently returned to Chicago after touring the US as Music Director/Conductor of SIX the Musical’s first national tour. Her work in the jazz world has included performing at clubs and festivals throughout the United States.
Bassist, vocalist, producer, label owner, and now filmmaker, Mimi Jones has reigned supreme, as a side woman to an impressive coterie of musicians and as a leader with three albums on her own Hot Tone Music label. Born Miriam Sullivan in New York City to parents from Barbados, she was raised in the Bronx. Jones took up the guitar at the age of twelve, studying classical guitar with her first music instructor, James Bartow, at the Harlem School of the Arts.
A unique voice in the Los Angeles contemporary improvised music scene, Tina Raymond blends traditional jazz vocabulary with African polyrhythm and classical percussion technique. She performs, adjudicates, and presents workshops world wide at venues, festivals, and conventions, and has shared the stage with many jazz luminaries.
Dawn Weber has a background that includes extensive training in both classical trumpet and flugelhorn, as well as jazz. The St. Louis-based trumpeter is known as a prolific songwriter, stylish vocalist, and for having a mesmerizing, high-energy stage presence.
See More
Kandace Springs (rebroadcast)
Kandace Spring’s latest album, “The Women Who Raised Me,” is her loving tribute to the great female singers who inspired her to begin her journey towards becoming one of the premier jazz/soul vocalists of our time. Featuring her unique interpretations of songs influential to her while growing up in Tennessee, Springs covers such classic icons as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Carmen McRae, through 60’s legends Nina Simone and Dusty Springfield, and up to modern masters such as Sade and Lauryn Hill.
See More
Good 4 the Soul (rebroadcast)
This explosive four-piece outfit draws upon jazz, funk, fusion, gospel, and R&B repertoires to deliver a powerful and unapologetic sound that excites and thrills audiences. When this band hits the stage, there are no boundaries. The only guarantee is a night of world-class music that is Good 4 the Soul.