“Continually drawing sustenance from its fundamental ties to African American culture, The American jazz community cuts across boundaries defined by age, class, vocation and ethnicity. At its core are professional musicians and aspirants for whom jazz is the central focus of their careers.  . .  . Around its core of artists, the jazz community includes listeners with wide-ranging tastes. Their ranks include supporters with diverse national and cultural backgrounds who have adopted the community’s music as their own.”

I would add that universities, public and private schools, instrument makers and repair shops, record shops, clubs, concert halls, festivals, promoters, music stores, regional jazz societies, musicians’ homes, booking agencies, rehearsal studios, recording studios, record labels, radio, satellite and internet stations, critics, writers, bloggers, record and video collectors, all make up this diverse and interrelated web of people and places, all united by this music we love so much.

The community into which I was first socialized was one whose primary organizing force was Jackie McLean. As a student of JMac’s at the Artists Collective and later at the Hartt School, the teaching and learning model put into practice was largely centered on the building of community.

When I moved into town after graduating in 1997, it didn’t take very long to find community here in New York. A lot of those same people and institutions (the elder statesmen, peers, clubs, record labels, writers) I mentioned before embraced me as a young musician and made me feel as though I belonged.

After a decade or so, my family and me moved 1700 miles away to Winnipeg so that I could pursue a tenure track university faculty position. I found a small but energized community there, not surprisingly built of musicians, like George Colligan, Steve Kirby and Quincy Davis, who had spent much of there careers as a part of the community here. Funny, but despite the distance, I never felt “estranged” from the scene. Although technology has truly made our world “smaller” and enabled connection over distance, it was through personal relationships with musicians like Lewis Nash, Bill Charlap, Renee Rosnes and clubs like Smalls and the Vanguard that no more than a few months passed between gigs and recording sessions here in New York.

Upon moving back home 3 years later, the unspeakable happened. I was writing music in my new office at Western Connecticut State University when my wife called to tell me to go immediately to our kids’ school – there had been a shooting. I found my son as soon as I got to the firehouse next to the school, but minutes of waiting for information on my daughter Ana’s whereabouts turned into hours. Members of our community reached out from all over the world. In those horrible, confusing hours I got texts from Lewis Nash from Japan offering prayers, calls from Wynton and Branford and Dee Dee Bridgewater offering their prayers and support, and from loads of other musicians at home and on the road offering encouragement. Harry Connick, Jr. drove to my house and arrived soon after we told my son that in those horrific shootings that he heard on the other side of the school, his little sister - his best friend - had been murdered. He talked for a while with my son, shared sincerely from his heart and actually managed to coax a smile from my little boy.

In the weeks afterwards, over 10,000 communications – emails, voicemails, texts, Facebook messages – reached us, many from this community. One such voicemail, from the great Mulgrew Miller, encouraged me, saying, “Hang in there – we need you.” This was left just a few months before he himself passed away.

Funds were donated to support our recovery, dozens of touching tribute songs were written to memorialize my little girl and 2,500 people attended Ana’s homegoing service, including many musicians from near and far, some of whom I never got to thank in person, but all of whom left an indelible mark upon my heart. It was as if they said, “The fact that this happened to your little girl and your family means that it happened to all of us.”

Soon thereafter the Chesky brothers, Norman and David, offered to donate the production of a recording, whenever I could find the strength to do it, and assign 100% ownership of the masters to me – not one dime of profit would they make from their sizable investment. Wait a minute; the recording industry is in decline, right? Who does that? This community does, that’s who. The musicians I contacted – all with a personal connection to my family and me (Lewis Nash, Renee Rosnes, Christian McBride, Kenny Barron, Anika Noni Rose, Javier Colon, Kurt Elling, Cyrus Chestnut, Pat Metheny, Jonathan DuBose) made themselves available and for a small honorarium made the music I wrote for my little girl come to life. Al Pryor advocated so strongly to Mack Avenue Records to release this project – Jimmy Katz donated the photos – everything was an outpouring of love from this beautiful community - one I am honored to be a part of.

So to you, the members of this vibrant, vital, supportive community – thank you. Thank you for loving my family and me through the worst days of our lives. Thank you for supporting our efforts to keep Ana’s memory alive, for purchasing Beautiful Life, for reviewing it in your magazines, newspapers and online outlets, for playing it on your radio/satellite stations, for nominating it for two Grammy awards. Thank you for supporting the Ana Grace Project, which does amazing work to encourage empathy and compassion in kids, schools and communities.

And a bit of encouragement to all of you who work so hard – although this business we’re in is very complex and often difficult, this music changes lives and needs to be heard! So many people have told me, “after listening to Beautiful Life, I was moved to tears and went and hugged my kids even tighter.” We all play a vital role in affecting people’s lives through this music, so again, in the words of our dearly departed friend Mulgrew Miller, “Hang in there – we need you!” Thank you.

 

A message from Pat Harris:

Please join us for the annual 2 Great Days of Jazz in the New York Suite on Saturday, January 16 and Sunday, January 17, 2016. We are presenting 26 of the finest jazz artists from around the world beginning at 9 AM and ending after midnight on both days.  This year we have moved to a bigger suite so that we may better service the large numbers of attendees.  We are still located on the 4th floor of the NY Hilton Hotel and will be available to meet with you to discuss any of the artists showcasing in our suite.  You will hear some amazing music and we know you will find the perfect fit for your venue, whether it's a Performing Arts Center, Museum, School, Club or Festival...you'll find what you need in the New York Suite. Jazz is America's gift to the world and we have been presenting it at APAP for the past 12 years. We are looking forward to meeting you!! 

Eric Olsen ReVision Quartet
Saturday 1/16  9:00  AM  10:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  6:00 PM
Pianist Eric Olsen’s seminal album Dyad Plays Puccini was selected as one of the 50 Best Jazz Albums of 2013 by Scott Albin of JazzTimes Magazine.  Now hear Eric’s ReVision Quartet transform familiar melodies from the classics to the Beatles into cutting edge jazz that transcends musical boundaries. “Sea Changes is a stunning rainbow bridge between the worlds of Classical and Jazz. Delight in the Jazz Expression of Classical Majesty” (Travis Rogers, JazzTimes) The ReVision Quartet is a world class ensemble featuring Don Braden and Danny Walsh on saxes, Ratzo B. Harris on bass, and Tony Moreno on drums.

Caesar
Saturday 1/16  9:30 AM  4:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  11:30 AM
Caesar's voice is a direct link to the golden age of true vocal artistry. He possesses the rare ability to sing in multiple languages and go from singing unplugged to swinging with a big band. His rich melodious, baritone voice has been compared to that of Nat King Cole's, but he has his own interpretation and style, that compares to no-one, but is essentially and superbly Caesar. Having toured the world with Julio Iglesias, Caesar is attracting the attention of a world audience as he delivers romantic renditions of Jazz standards customized for today's audience.

Bria Skonberg
Saturday 1/16  10:00 AM  Sunday 1/17  10:00 AM  7:00 PM
Trumpeter/Vocalist is "poised to be one of the most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation."(Wall Street Journal) A specialist in classic American "hot jazz", she seamlessly intertwines the traditions of Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet with modern appeal; Her US Debut "So Is The Day" peaked at #7 on the National Jazz Charts featuring her original compositions and NOLA inspired stylistic fusions.  Her work has been awarded as expanding the vocabulary and vision of the jazz idiom. She is an avid educator, programming concerts and workshops for students of all ages and is Co-Director/Co-Founder of the New York Hot Jazz Camp set to launch in 2016. Bria is a Bach endorsing artist.

Diego Figueiredo 
Saturday 1/16  10:30 AM  Sunday 1/17  11:00 AM   2:00 PM
Brazilian Guitar Master Diego Figueiredo (pronounced fig-a-ray-do) is considered one of the most talented guitar players in the world today. He is the winner of several important competitions including the Montreux Jazz Competition and the VISA Prize. His music is a fusion between jazz, Bossa Nova and classical. Diego's unique interpretations, along with his phenomenal technique and emotion, have created an explosion of adoring fans and concert goers. 

 

Vanessa Rubin
Saturday 1/16  11:00 AM
The Legendary Billie Holiday featuring Vanessa Rubin is the great lady of song, in this spectacular tribute to Billie Holiday. Vanessa presents many of Billie's well known classic pieces as well as some rarely heard songs in concert settings. Capable of employing the gamut of emotions, Vanessa can range from a whisper to a shout in the blink of an eye; from honey-laden ballads purring like a kitten, to up tempo swinging numbers. Vanessa Rubin delivers the goods.

Svetlana &  The Delancey Five  
Saturday 1/16  11:30 AM
Take an exhilarating, energetic  dose of jazz vocals, add shining instrumentals and a dash of yesteryear, then mix in a whole lot of musical dexterity and charm - and you have one of New York’s most beloved & outstanding swing bands.   Svetlana & The Delancey Five is a Golden Age-inspired swing band. Playing hard swinging 1920s-40s jazz standards as well as charismatic originals, and featuring Svetlana's vocals backed by the band members' harmonizing and virtuoso instrumentals - their tunes are so infectious, they'll steal your heart and sweep you off your feet!  

 

Vadim Eilenkrig
Saturday 1/16  12:00 PM  7:00 PM  Sunday 1/17 8:00 PM
Famous Russian trumpeter Vadim Eilenkrig  presents his new program ‘Hello, Louis!’ The concert, a tribute to Louis Armstrong will be performed by Eilenkrig with his band and by several guests, such as Allan Harris (best jazz vocal 2015 according to Downbeat magazine); Lucy Campeti, vocalist of Gabin (Italy); and Nikita Butenko, conductor, trombonist, and tuba player.

 

Igor Butman Quartet
Sunday 1/17  12:00 PM
Don't miss Russia's premier Jazz Artist, and President Bill Clinton's favorite saxophonist.  In 2000, the Igor Butman Quartet performed at the Moscow Kremlin in front of the U.S. President Bill Clinton and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Since 1999 the quartet has performed at high-profile jazz festivals in Germany, Italy, France, Bulgaria, Spain and Turkey and toured USA, Israel, Belgium and Finland.

 

Matt Baker
Saturday 1/16  12:30 PM  6:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  12:30 PM
Australian Jazz Pianist Matt Baker has performed at jazz festivals, clubs and concert halls in Australia, Europe, USA and the Pacific. Aside from performing as a solo artist, he is fast becoming one of the most sought after accompanists, sidemen and Musical Directors on the New York scene.  Matt is proud to present music from his new album, to be released early 2016. The record features Joel Frahm, Obed Calvaire, Luques Curtis, Lage Lund and is produced by Matt Pierson. The CD is a culmination of a journey traveled by many to find the place that one belongs.

Jenna Mammina & Rolf Sturm
Saturday 1/16  1:00 PM  8:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  4:30 PM
Vocalist Jenna Mammina & guitarist Rolf Sturm present their uniquely intimate approach to old and new standards from the 1930's through last week.  Jenna has been recognized as one of the leading women of jazz/pop crossover for three years in a row by Jazziz Magazine.  Rolf’s guitar playing has also earned the praise of Joe Pass, Jim Hall, John Abercrombie, and Bill Frisell. He appears on over 60 CDs including recordings that feature Tony Trischka, Loudon Wainwright, Anthony Braxton, David Johansen, John Medeski, Billy Martin, Glen Velez, Maggie Roche, Jorma Kaukonen, Roswell Rudd, Dave Douglas, Ike Willis, Eddy Arnold, Pablo Aslan, Giora Feidman, and members of the Grateful Dead. 

Alexis Cole
Saturday 1/16  1:30 PM 6:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  10:30 AM 
"The Magic of Disney Love Songs" Disney movies created some of the all-time greatest love songs including "When You Wish Upon a Star" (Pinocchio), "So This is Love" (Cinderella), and "For Now, For Always" (The Parent Trap). Today's leading jazz and pop vocalist Alexis Cole sings all the Disney favorites with lush arrangements. The Wall Street Journal says "Alexis sings as sultry as the Disney songbook is ever going to get."

Deanna Witkowski
Saturday 1/16  2:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  9:00 AM  5:30 PM
Possessing a supple sense of swing, ravishing touch, and vast harmonic resources, New York pianist/composer Deanna Witkowski leads her trio in a program that masks the lines between classical, jazz, and Brazilian music. Witkowski's playing is consistently thrilling, and her musical imagination seems boundless. -All Music Guide  

Aimée Allen 
Saturday 1/16  2:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  9:30 AM  10:00 PM
Critics call Aimée Allen “a significant composer and vocal stylist” whose “piercingly intelligent” lyrics move listeners. Aimée will perform from her release Matter of Time with Francois Moutin, Toru Dodo, and Jacob Melchior."

Bryan & Lola
Saturday  1/16  10:30 PM
Married singer/songwriter duo tell it like it is.  Bryan and Lola captivate audiences with their sweet and honest "Songs From The Heart” Blending jazz and pop they create an evening full of amazing musical and emotional moments. 

Dale Head
Saturday 1/16 3:00 PM  12:00 AM  Sunday 1/17  11:30 PM
Singing songs from his latest album, Swing Straight Up.  With his smooth vocals, sophisticated trumpet solos and dynamic performances, his style of swing and jazz is sure to delight audiences.  His performance is a must see event at APAP!

Laura Dickinson
Saturday 1/16 3:30 PM  11:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  12:00 AM
Laura Dickinson’s debut album, One for My Baby – To Frank Sinatra With Love, showcases the powerhouse vocals that have won her countless accolades on Emmy-award winning TV shows along with her talents as an arranger and multi-instrumentalist.  An in-demand singer in Hollywood, her soaring vocals can be heard in Universal's box office smash Pitch Perfect and the sequel, on commercials for Maybelline, Target, and Priceline along with hit shows such as Modern Family and Supernatural. However, it's her award-winning work on Disney Channel's animated hits Phineas and Ferb and Sofia The First that bring her the most attention. With a wink, Laura will introduce herself as "I'm your nine year-old daughter's favorite singer."

Brad Myers
Saturday 1/16  4:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  1:00 PM  10:30 PM
"The Brad Myers Quintet, based in Cincinnati, OH, performs guitar/vibes/sax based original modern jazz from his critically acclaimed CD, Prime Numbers, which recently earned “★★★★” from Downbeat Magazine (Sept. ’15)"

Rebeca Vallejo
Saturday 1/16  5:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  4:00 PM  6:30 PM
Originally from Madrid, Rebeca Vallejo combines the sounds of her ancestral Flamenco roots through the language of Jazz, adding Brazilian rhythms and body percussion to the mix into an unmistakable sound and a powerfully engaging on-stage presence.

Camille Thurman
Saturday  1/16  5:30 PM
Multi-talented saxophonist, flutist, vocalist, composer and educator, is a young musician emerging on the horizon, acquiring an impressive list of accomplishments that extend well beyond her years. Her lush, velvety, rich & warm sound on the tenor saxophone has eluded others to compare her sound to the likeness of tenor greats Gene Ammons and Dexter Gordon to name a few. Camille’s ability to sing 4 octaves and perform vocalese has given her the capability to influence audiences with melodies reminiscent to the sounds of Minnie Riperton, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.

Heidi Breyer
Saturday 1/16  7:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  9:00 PM
“Energetic, heartfelt, communicating on a deeply emotional level, full of melody and rhythm,” composer/pianist, Heidi Breyer takes us on an  evocative journey over familiar terrain. Grammy nominee, ZMR winner. 

Todd Mosby
Saturday 1/16  8:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  8:30 PM
Somehow he manages to synthesize these disparate elements into a singular musical voice that is unique in my experience… and “unique” is not a word I throw out easily or frequently. Sometimes, however, it’s apt; as it is with Todd Mosby." - Will Ackerman, multi grammy producer, guitarist and founder, Windham Hill Records

Galen Weston
Saturday 1/16  9:00 PM 11:00 PM  Sunday 1/17  11:00 PM
The Galen Weston Band is the eponymous jazz-fusion sextet featuring the Toronto-based guitarist and his group internationally-respected Canadian musicians. Weston’s debut recording Plugged In has charted internationally and received rave reviews from leading music publications.

Giula Valle Trio
Sunday  1/17  2:30 PM
After experimenting as a leader with a similar format on the “Enchanted House” record (FSNT) along with Jason Lindner and Marc Ayza, Giulia Valle Trio is now showing a band of great maturity where the interplay between the members is the common denominator.  Two great musicians who are already part of the Giulia Valle Group are featured in this project: the very young & extraordinaire Marco Mezquida (piano) and one of the current scene’s most innovative and creative musicians, as well as a musician featured on several records as a sideman, David Xirgu. A fresh project led by one of today’s Jazz most prolific and personal begetters, backed by the immense creativity and experience treasured by these three artists.

Denise Donatelli
Sunday  1/17  3:00 PM
One of today’s premiere vocalists, alternating between jazz and adult contemporary with ease, has been on quite a roll!  Her last two albums have received three GRAMMY® nominations.  She has been voted into the Downbeat Critics Poll as Female Vocalist Rising Star for the past three consecutive years, and was named Female Jazz Vocalist of the Year by the Los Angeles Jazz Society. With the release of Find A Heart, Donatelli once again proves why she is the subject of such accolades. 
**2015 Grammy® Award Nominee "Best Jazz Vocalist"

Axel Tosca Laugart
Sunday 1/17  5:00 PM
Cuban born Axel Tosca Laugart is one of the most dynamic young pianists on the scene. Laugart's family influenced his musical interests at an early age. Both his father and stepfather were musicians and his father's guitar playing sparked an early interest in the instrument. He began playing guitar around the age of four and piano at the age of seven, accompanying his parents. Laugart's mother, Xiomada Laugart, is a world-famous singer, whom he still performs with today.

Natalie Douglas
Saturday 1/16  9:30 PM  Sunday 1/17  1:30 PM  7:30 PM
To Nina: a tribute to Nina Simone  Honoring the spirit, talent and emotional power of the legendary Dr. Nina Simone, seven-time MAC Award Winner Natalie Douglas performs Nina’s greatest hits in this stunning showcase.

Carlos Averhoff,Jr
Sunday 1/17  3:30 PM  9:30 PM
Carlos Averhoff Jr is a Latin Grammy nominated Cuban tenor saxophonist, contemporary Afro-Cuban Jazz composer and educator. All About Jazz names Carlos "a dynamic fresh new voice on the saxophone” and Latin Jazz Network portrays his playing as “quite extraordinarily expressive and beautiful,” further adding, “Carlos Averhoff Jr is a musician who is renowned as a virtuoso soloist.” He presents his debut album iRESI.  The music of Carlos Averhoff Jr’s & iRESI is visionary, unique, engaging and rich in tradition and elegantly. Combines the harmonies and rhythmic landscapes of Cuban music with the modern allure of contemporary avant - garde Jazz.

 

FULL PERSONNEL & INSTRUMENTATION ANNOUNCED!

 

WJF12

The 2016 NYC WINTER JAZZFEST
January 13-17

Celebrating 12 Years of groundbreaking music!

Winterjazzfest.com

#NYCWJF
 
Tentative Lineup, subject to change (added artists in Blue)…

 

Featuring...

 

Artist in Residence: Dave King

Al Strong

Alicia Hall Moran with Brandon Ross

Amir ElSaffar and Two Rivers

Ben Williams & Sound Effect

Bill Laswell

Brandon Seabrook Power Plant

Bumper Jacksons

Butler, Bernstein & The Hot 9

Camila Meza

Channeling Coltrane - Rova's Electric Ascension with Nels Cline

Charenee Wade Group: The Music of Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson

Chargaux

Chris Morrissey's Standard Candle (w/ Mike Lewis)

Chris Speed Trio

Chris Washburne's Acid Mambo Project

Christian McBride

Christian Sands

Colin Stetson

Cory Henry... The Revival

Cyro Baptista’s Banquet of the Spirits

Cyrus Chestnut's African Reflections

Dave King Trucking Company

Dave King Vector Families

Dawn of Midi

Dayna Stephens: 3wi featuring Sam Yahel

Dither

DJ Mark de Clive Lowe

DJ Raydar Ellis

Don Byron Quartet

Dr. Lonnie Smith’s Evolution

Eli Degibri

Emile Parisien Quartet

Evan Christopher's Clarinet Road featuring Hilary Gardner

Fabian Almazan w/ Rhizome

Forro In The Dark Plays Zorn

Frank Catalano

Freelance

Gilad Hekselman

GoGo Penguin

Gordon Au's Grand St Stompers with Tamar Korn and Molly Ryan

Gregoire Maret and The Inner Voices with guest Jean Baylor

Gregorio Uribe Big Band

Happy Apple

Holler & Bam with Toshi Reagon & Allison Miller

Ibrahim Maalouf

James Brandon Lewis

James Carney Sextet

James Francies’ Kinetic

James “Blood” Ulmer

Jay Rodriguez Evolutions

Jeff Lederer's Brooklyn Blowhards play Albert Ayler and songs of the sea

Jim Black Trio

Joey Arias: Basic Black

Jon-Erik Kellso & The EarRegulars

Jose James

Julian Lage Trio

Kaki King

Kamasi Washington

Keyon Harrold

KING

Kris Bowers

Lakecia Benjamin

Makaya McCraven

Marc Cary's Indigenous People

Mark de Clive Lowe's CHURCH

Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet

Marika Hughes

Matana Roberts

Maurice Brown

Meklit

Michael Mwenso & Brianna Thomas Louis & Ella tribute

Mike Davis' New Wonders

Mivos

Monty Alexander and The Harlem Kingston Express

Naytronix

Nicole Henry

No BS! Brass Band

Nublu Orchestra "We play for you, Butch Morris"

OGJB Quartet w/ Oliver Lake, Graham Haynes, Joe Fonda, Barry Altschul

Ohad Talmor Large Ensemble

Oscar Noriega Quartet

Pedrito Martinez

Quarktet Burnt plays Ornette, Sunny, and Wayne

Red Baraat

Reid Anderson with Andrew D'Angelo & Bill McHenry

Rene Marie

Rez Abbasi's Junction

Rhythm Future Quartet

Roberta Gambarini

Roy Hargrove

Samy Daussat Gypsy Tribute to Serge Gainsbourg

Sarah Neufeld & Colin Stetson

Sarah Vaughan & Clifford Brown Reimagined

Sexmob@20

Shai Maestro Trio

Sharel Cassity & Elektra

Slingbaum's Ravel Reimagined

Sofia Rei

Sun Ra Arkestra directed by Marshall Allen

Sylvain Rifflet "Mechanics"

Takuya Kuroda

Tatiana Eva-Marie & The Avalon Jazz Band

Terrace Martin

The Ex

Theo Croker

Thiefs & Guests

Tierney Sutton

Tom McDermott

Tongues in Trees

Véronique Hermann Sambin & Xavier Richardeau

Will Calhoun Celebrating Elvin Jones

Yellowjackets

Yosvany Terry

 

ECM at WJF: A Celebration of ECM Records, featuring...
Avishai Cohen
Ches Smith / Craig Taborn / Mat Maneri
Chris Potter Quartet
Craig Taborn
David Torn
David Virelles' Mboko
Ethan Iverson / Mark Turner Duo
Mark Turner Quartet
Michael Formanek Large Ensemble
Ralph Alessi Quartet
Theo Bleckmann Group
Tim Berne Group
Vijay Iyer Trio

 

plus more TBA!

 

2016 WINTER JAZZFEST GENERAL SCHEDULE & TICKETING:

 

Wednesday January 13^th 2016 (at Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street)

NYC Winter Jazzfest presents 

THE EX, BILL LASWELL & COLIN STETSON Duo, HAPPY APPLE

THE EX (Terrie Hessels - guitar, baritone guitar / Arnold De Boer - vocals, guitar, sampler / Andy Moore - guitar, baritone guitar / Katherina Bornefeld - drums, vocals

BILL LASWELL & COLIN STETSON in duo

HAPPY APPLE (Dave King - drums / Erik Fratzke - electric bass / Mike Lewis - sax, keyboard

7pm - Doors / 8pm Show

$20 ADV, $25 DOS 

$145 5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

Thursday January 14^th 2016 (at Webster Hall, 125 East 11th Street)

NYC Winter Jazzfest presents

KAMASI WASHINGTON & GUESTS

(Kamasi Washington - tenor saxophone, band leader / Miles Mosley - acoustic bass / Ronald Bruner, Jr. - drums / Tony Austin - drums / Patrice Quinn - lead vocals / Cameron Graves - piano / Brandon Coleman - keys / Ryan Porter - trombone / Dontae Winslow – trumpet)

6pm - Doors / 7pm Show

$40 ADV, $50 DOS

$145 5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

Friday January 15^th 2016 (at multiple Venues in Greenwich Village)

NYC WINTER JAZZFEST MARATHON: DAY 1

12th Season of the NYC Winter Jazzfest Marathon features over 100 groups performing over two days at multiple different venues around Greenwich Village.

Check winterjazzfest.com for the full lineup, schedule updates, and more details. 

5pm - Box Office Opens, Passes Available for Purchase and Pickup (Pickup Locations TBA)

$45  Single-Day WJF Marathon Festival Pass

$75  2-day Marathon WJF Pass

$145 5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

Saturday January 16^th 2016 (at multiple Venues in Greenwich Village)

NYC WINTER JAZZFEST MARATHON: DAY 2

12th Season of the NYC Winter Jazzfest Marathon features over 100 groups performing over two days at multiple different venues around Greenwich Village.

Check winterjazzfest.com for the full lineup, schedule updates, and more details. 

5pm - Box Office Opens, Passes Available for Purchase and Pickup (Pickup Locations TBA)

$45  Single-Day WJF Marathon Festival Pass

$75  2-day Marathon WJF Pass

$145 5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

Sunday January 17^th 2016 (at Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street)

CHANNELING COLTRANE: ROVA’S ELECTRIC ASCENSION WITH NELS CLINE plus opening solo set by JULIAN LAGE

(Larry Ochs - saxophone / Bruce Ackley - saxophone / Jon Raskin - saxophone / Steve Adams - saxophone / Nels Cline - guitar / Zeena Parkins - harp / Nate Wooley - trumpet / Ikue Mori - drums/electronics / Trevor Dunn - bass / Gerald Cleaver - drums / Charles Burnham - violin / Jason Kao Hwang – violin)

5pm - Doors / 7pm Show

$25 ADV, $30 DOS 

$145 5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

 

 

2016 NYC WINTER JAZZFEST MARATHON SCHEDULE 

(JANUARY 15TH & 16TH)

 

 

The New School Tishman Auditorium 63 Fifth Avenue NYC

(ECM @ Winter Jazzfest) 

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:00pm    David Torn solo (David Torn – guitar)

7:00pm    Mark Turner Quartet (Mark Turner - saxophone / Avishai Cohen - trumpet /Joe Martin - bass / Marcus Gilmore – drums)

8:00pm    Craig Taborn solo (Craig Taborn – piano)

9:00pm    Avishai Cohen Quartet (Avishai Cohen - trumpet / Jason Lindner - piano / Tal Mashiach - bass / Nasheet Waits – drums)

10:00pm  Ches Smith / Craig Taborn / Mat Maneri  (Ches Smith - drums / Craig Taborn - piano / Mat Maneri – violin)

11:20pm  Vijay Iyer Trio (Vijay Iyer - piano / Stephan Crump - bass / Marcus Gilmore – drums)

12:40am  David Virelles Mboko (David Virelles - piano / Román Díaz - percussion / Eric McPherson - drums / Matt Brewer – bass)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

6:00pm    Michael Formanek Ensemble Kolossus (Loren Stillman - alto sax / Oscar Noriega - alto sax, clarinets / Chris Speed tenor sax, clarinet / Brian Settles - tenor sax, flute / Tim Berne - baritone saxophone / Dave Ballou - trumpet / Ralph Alessi - trumpet / Shane Endsley - trumpet / Kirk Knuffke - trumpet / Alan Ferber - trombone / Jacob Garchik - trombone / Ben Gerstein - trombone / Jeff Nelson - bass trombone, contrabass trombone / Patricia Brennan - marimba / Mary Halvorson - guitar / Kris Davis - piano / Michael Formanek - double bass / Tomas Fujiwara - drums / Patricia Brennan - marimba / Mark Helias – conductor)

7:20pm    Theo Bleckmann Elegy (Theo Bleckmann - vocals / Shai Maestro - piano / Ben Monder - guitar / Chris Tordini - bass / John Hollenbeck – drums)

8:40pm    Chris Potter Quartet (Chris Potter - saxophone / David Virelles - piano / Joe Martin - bass / Marcus Gilmore – drums)

10:00pm  Tim Berne's Sideshow (Tim Berne - saxophone / Ralph Alessi - trumpet / Matt Mitchell - piano / John Hebert - bass / Dan Weiss - drums 

11:20pm  Ralph Alessi Quartet (Ralph Alessi - trumpet / David Virelles - piano / Drew Gress - bass / Nasheet Waits – drums)

12:40pm  Ethan Iverson / Mark Turner (Ethan Iverson - piano / Mark Turner – saxophone)

 

 

The New School Auditorium on 12th Street  66 W. 12th Street NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:20pm    Roberta Gambarini - TBD

7:40pm    Roy Hargrove - TBD

9:00pm    James "Blood" Ulmer - James Blood Ulmer - guitar, vocals

10:20pm  Christian McBride - TBD

11:40pm  Forro in The Dark plays John Zorn (Mauro Refosco - zabumba, percussion / Guilherme Monteiro - guitar / Aaron Heick - saxophone, flute / Aaron Johnston - drums / Jeff Hill - bass / Felipe Hostins - accordion

1:00am    Nublu Orchestra "We play for you, Butch Morris" (Brandon Ross - guitar / Doug Wieselman - clarinet / Kenny Wollesen - drums / Graham Haynes - cornet / Mike Kiaer - guitar / Jonathan Huffier - saxophone / Ilhan Ersahin - saxophone / Mauro Refosco – percussion)

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

6:20pm    Don Byron Quartet (Don Byron - clarinet / Cameron Brown - bass / Aruan Ortiz - piano / Bruce Cox – drums)

7:40pm    Ibrahim Maalouf (Clarence Penn - drums / Larry Grenadier - bass / Mark Turner - saxophone / Ibrahim Maalouf - trumpet / TBA - piano )

9:00pm    Butler, Bernstein and The Hot 9 (Henry Butler - piano, vocals / Steven Bernstein - trumpet, slide trumpet, alto horn / Curtis Fowlkes - trombone / Mazz Swift - violin / Doug Wieselman - clarinet, tenor saxophone / Peter Apfelbaum - tenor & soprano saxophone / Erik Lawrence - baritone & soprano saxophone / Matt Munisteri - guitar / Brad Jones - bass / Donald Edwards – drums)

10:20pm  OGJB Quartet w/ Oliver Lake, Graham Haynes, Joe Fonda, Barry Altschul (Oliver Lake - saxophone / Graham Haynes - cornet / Joe Fonda - bass / Barry Altschul – drums)

11:40pm  Monty Alexander and The Harlem Kingston Express (Monty Alexander - piano / Hassan Shakur - bass / Obed Calvaire - drums / Andy Bassford - guitar / Joshua Thomas - bass / Karl Wright – drums)

 

 

The New School Jazz Building Glass Box Theater 55 West 13th Street NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:40pm    James Carney Sextet (James Carney - piano / Stephanie Richards - trumpet / Chris Speed - tenor saxophone / Oscar Noriega - bass clarinet and saxophone / Dezron Douglas - bass / Mark Ferber - drums

8:00pm    James Francies’ Kinetic (James Francies - keys and piano / Alan Hampton - bass / Matt Stevens - guitar / Joel Ross – vibraphone)

9:20pm    Naytronix (Nate Brenner- bass, keys, vocals / Stephen Patota - guitar / Ben Sloan – drums)

10:40pm  Dave King Trucking Company (Dave King - drums / Chris Speed - tenor sax, clarinet / Brandon Wozniak - tenor sax / Erik Fratzke - guitar / Chris Morrissey- bass 

12:00am  Oscar Noriega Quartet (Oscar Noriega - reeds / Brandon Seabrook - guitar / Trevor Dunn - bass / Dan Weiss – drums)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

6:40pm    TBA

8:00pm    Sofia Rei (Sofia Rei - vocals, charango, loops / Josh Deutsch - trumpet / Eric Kurimski - guitar / JC Maillard - guitar / Jorge Roeder - bass / Franco Pinna - drums, percussion)

9:20pm    Dave King Vector Families feat. Dave King & Anthony Cox  (Dave King - drums / Anthony Cox - bass and cello / Dean Granros - guitar / Brandon Wozniak - tenor sax)

10:40pm  Rez Abbasi's Junction (Rez Abbasi - guitar / Mark Shim - tenor sax/midi wind controller / Ben Stivers - keyboards / Kenny Grohowski – drums)

12:00am  Brandon Seabrook Power Plant (Brandon Seabrook - banjo, guitar / Tom Blancarte - bass / Jared Seabrook – drums)

 

 

New School Jazz Building 5th Floor Theater 55 West 13th Street NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

7:00pm    Chris Morrissey's Standard Candle (w/ Mike Lewis) (Chris Morrissey - electric bass and voice / Mike Lewis - saxophone and voice / Grey McMurray - guitar and voice / Josh Dion - drums, keyboard and voice)

8:20pm    Chris Speed Trio (Chris Speed - tenor saxophone / Chris Tordini- bass / Dave King – drums)

9:40pm    Charenee Wade Group: The Music of Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson (Charenee Wade - vocals / Brandon McCune - piano / Lonnie Plaxico - bass / Darrell Green - drums / Nikara Warren - vibes / Dave Stryker - guitar / Lakecia Benjamin – sax)

11:00pm  Marc Cary's Indigenous People (Marc Cary - keyboards and electronics / Tarus Mateen - bass / Russel Carter - drums / JS Williams - trumpet / Jacques Schwarz-Bart - saxophone / Terri Davis - vocals and flute)

12:20am  Sharel Cassity & Elektra (Sharel Cassidy - saxes & effects / Ingrid Jensen, trumpet & effects / Shamie Royston, keyboard / Linda Oh - bass, vocals / Allison Miller – drums)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

7:00pm    Reid Anderson with Andrew D'Angelo & Bill McHenry (Reid Anderson - electronics / Andrew D'Angelo - alto sax / Bill McHenry - tenor sax)

8:20pm    Jim Black Trio (Jim Black - drums / Teddy Klausner - piano / Thomas Morgan – bass)

9:40pm    Will Calhoun Celebrating Elvin Jones (Will Calhoun - drums / Gerald Cannon - bass / Antoine Roney - saxophone / Keyon Harrold - trumpet / Rick Germanson – piano)

11:00pm  Shai Maestro Trio (Shai Maestro - piano / Jorge Roeder - bass / Ziv Ravitz - drums )

12:20am  Ohad Talmor Large Ensemble (Chet Doxas - tenor Sax & clarinet / Anna Webber - tenor sax & flute / Oscar Noriega - alto sax & clarinet / Christoph Knoche - alto sax & clarinet / Josh Sinton - bari sax & bass clarinet / Shane Endsley, Russ Johnson, Sam Hoyt - trumpets & flugelhorns / Justin Mullens - trumpet & french horn / Alan Ferber, Jacob Garchik, Brian Drye - trombones / Max Seigel - bass trombone / Matt MItchell - piano / Pete McCann - guitar / Matt Pavolka - bass / Dan Weiss - drums

 

 

Le Poisson Rouge 158 Bleecker Street

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:20pm    Joey Arias: Basic Black (Joey Arias - vocals / Brandon Seabrook - guitar / Allison Miller - drums / TBA – bass)
7:40pm    Sexmob @ 20 (Steven Bernstein - slide trumpet / Tony Scherr - bass / Briggan Krauss - saxophone / Kenny Wollesen – drums)

9:00pm    Red Baraat (Sunny Jain - Dhol / Rohin Khemani - percussion / Chris Eddleton - drums / Jonathan Goldberger - guitar / Jonathon Haffner - soprano saxophone / Sonny Singh - trumpet / Ernest Stuart - trombone / John Altieri - sousaphone

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

6:20pm    Jose James (Jose James - voice / Nate Smith - drums / Solomon Dorsey - bass / Takeshi Obhayashi – keys)

7:40pm    Takuya Kuroda (Takuya Kuroda - trumpet / Corey King - trombone & vocals / Takeshi Ohbayashi - keys / Adam Jackson  drums / Rashaan Carter – bass)

9:00pm    GoGo Penguin (Chris Illingworth - piano / Nick Blacka - bass / Rob Turner – drums)

 

 

 

Judson Memorial Church 55 Washington Square South

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:40pm    Quarktet Burnt plays Ornette, Sunny, and Wayne (Greg Tate - conduction / Mikel Banks - vocals/freak-a-phone/harmonica / Shelley Nicole - vocals/percussion / Julie Brown - vocals / Lewis ‘Flip’ Barnes - trumpet / Avram Fefer - tenor sax / V. Jeffery Smith - alto & tenor sax / ‘Moist’ Paula Henderson - bari sax / Leon Gruenbaum - keyboards / Ben Tyree - guitar / Jared Michael Nickerson - electric bass / LaFrae Sci – drums)

8:00pm    Dayna Stephens: 3wi featuring Sam Yahel (Dayna Stephens - saxophone, EWI / Gilad Hekselman - guitar / Sam Yahel - organ / Adam Arruda – drums)

9:20pm    Dr. Lonnie Smith’s Evolution (Dr. Lonnie Smith - Hammond B3 organ / Keyon Harrold - trumpet / Dayna Stephens - tenor saxophone / Jonathan Kreisberg, guitar / Johnathan Blake - drums / Allison Miller – drums)

10:40pm  Sarah Neufeld & Colin Stetson (Sarah Neufeld - violin / Colin Stetson - baritone sax)

12:00am  TBA

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

 

6:40pm    Gregoire Maret and The Inner Voices with guest Jean Baylor (Gregoire Maret - harmonica / Shedrick Mitchell - B3, keys / TBA - bass / Marcus Baylor - drums / plus choir)

8:00pm    No BS! Brass Band (Reggie Pace - trombone / Bryan Hooten - trombone / John Hulley - trombone / Reggie Chapman - trombone / Dillard Watt - trombone / Sam Koff - trumpet / Marcus Tenney - trumpet / Taylor Barnett - trumpet / Rob Quallich - trumpet / David Hood - saxophone / Stefan Demetriadis - tuba / Lance Koehler – drums)

9:20pm    Kris Bowers (Kris Bowers - keys / Adam Agati - guitar / Burniss Earl Travis II - bass / TBA – drums)

10:40pm  Cory Henry... The Revival (Cory Henry - organ, keys / Nathaniel Townsley - drums / Burniss Earl Travis II – bass)

12:00am  Sun Ra Arkestra directed by Marshall Allen (Marsall Allen - alto sax, EVI / James Stewart - tenor sax / Terry Larson - tenor sax / Danny Thompson - barritone sax / Cecil Brooks - trumpet / Dave Davies - trombone / Tyler Mitchell - bass / Tara Middleton - vocals / Elson Nascimento - percussion / Dave Hotep - guitar / George Burton - piano / Atakatune - percussion / Wayne Smith - drums / Terry Adams – keyboards)

 

 

Subculture 45 Bleecker St NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:00pm    Matana Roberts solo (Matana Roberts – saxophone)

7:00pm    Tierney Sutton (Tierney Sutton - vocals / Christian Jacob - piano / Kevin Axt - bass / Ray Brinker – drums)

8:20pm    Yellowjackets (Bob Mintzer - tenor saxophone / Russell Ferrante - piano and keys / Dane Alderson - bass / Will Kennedy – drums)

9:40pm    Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet (Mark Guiliana - drums / Jason Rigby - saxophone / Shai Maestro - piano / Chris Morrissey – bass)

11:00pm  Keyon Harrold (Revive Music Presents) (Keyon Harrold - trumpet / Shedrick Mitchell - piano / Burniss Earl Travis II - bass / Chris Dave - drums / Casey Benjamin – saxophone)

12:20am  Jeff Lederer's Brooklyn Blowhard (Jeff Lederer - reeds / Petr Cancura - reeds / Kirk Knuffke - brass / Brian Drye - brass / Art Bailey - accordian / Allison Miller - drums / Stephen LaRosa - percussion / Gary Lucas - guitar / MaryLaRose – vocals)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

7:00pm    Mivos (Olivia de Prato - violin / Joshua Modney - violin / Mariel Roberts - cello / Victor Lowrie – viola)

8:20pm    Frank Catalano (Frank Catalano - sax / Jimmy Chamberlin - drums / Theo Hill - piano / Deen Anbar - guitar / John Benitez – bass)

9:40pm    Amir ElSaffar's Two Rivers (Amir ElSaffar - trumpet, Santour, vocals / Nasheet Waits - drums / Zafer Tawil - oud and percussion / Tareq Abboushi - buzuq / Ole Mathisen - saxophone / Carlo DeRosa – bass)

11:00pm  Holler and Bam with Toshi Reagon & Allison Miller (Toshi Reagon - guitar, vocals / Allison Miller - drums / Alex Nolan - guitar / Rachel Eckroth - keyboards / Everett Bradley - percussion / Ganessa James - bass / Stephanie McKay - vocals / Marcelle Davies Lashley – vocals)

12:20am  Julian Lage Trio (Julian Lage - guitar / Scott Colley - bass / Kenny Wollesen – drums)

 

 

 

The Greene Space at WNYC & WQXR 44 Charlton Street NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

7:00pm    Alicia Hall Moran with Brandon Ross (Alicia Hall Moran - vocals / Brandon Ross – guitar)

8:20pm    Dither (James Moore - guitar / Taylor Levine - guitar / Josh Lopes - guitar / Gyan Riley – guitar)

9:40pm    Chargaux (Jasmin “Charly” Charles - vocals / Margaux Whitney – vocals)

11:00pm  The Ex (Terrie Hessels - guitar, baritone guitar / Arnold De Boer - vocals, guitar, sampler / Andy Moore - guitar, baritone guitar / Katherina Bornefeld - drums, vocals)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

7:00pm    Kaki King (Kaki King – guitar)

8:20pm    Cyrus Chestnut's African Reflections (Cyrus Chestnut - piano / Steven Carrington - saxophone / Eric Wheeler - bass / Chris Beck – drums)

9:40pm    Fabian Almazan w/ Rhizome (Fabian Almazan - piano / Linda Oh - bass / Henry Cole - drums / Megan Gould - violin / Tomoko Omura - violin / Karen Waltuch - viola / Noah Hoffeld – cello)

11:00pm  Dawn of Midi (Aakaash Israni - bass / Amino Belyamani - piano / Qasim Naqvi – drums)

 

 

The Bitter End 147 Bleecker Street NYC

(Revive Music Stage)

 

Friday January 15th 2016

7:00pm    Makaya McCraven (Makaya McCraven - drums / Matt Gold - guitar / Marquis Hill - trumpet / Justefan - vibes / Joshua Ramos – bass)

8:20pm    Terrace Martin (Terrace Martin - keys, sax, vocals / Andrew Renfroe - guitar / Robert Joseph Searight - kebabs / Jonathan Barber - drums / Latonya Geneva Givens - vocals / Taber Gable – keys)

9:40pm    KING (Paris Strother - vocals / Amber Strother - vocals / Anita Bias – vocals)

11:00pm  Slingbaum's Ravel Reimagined (Terry Slingbaum - moog, guitar, conducting / Adam Jackon - drums / Bendji Allonce - percussion / BIGYUKI - key bass / Marcus Strickland - sax, bass clarinet / Keyon Harrold - trumpet / string quartet)

12:20am  Sarah Vaughan & Clifford Brown Reimagined (Ray Angry - music director, keys / Kennedy - vocals / Christie Dashiell - vocals / Keyon Harrold - trumpet / Josh Evans - trumpet / Burniss Earl Travis II - bass / Nasheet Waits – drums)

1:40am    Mark de Clive Lowe's CHURCH (Mark de Clive-Lowe - keys, electronics / John Robinson - mc / Igmar Thomas - trumpet / Jaleel Shaw - sax / Burniss Earl Travis II - bass / Nate Smith – drums)

DJ Raydar Ellis spins all night

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

7:00pm    Freelance (Smithsoneon - vocals / Chad Selph - keys / Yasser Tejeda - guitar / Craig Hill - sax / Justin Tyson - drums / David Ginyard – bass)

8:20pm    Maurice Brown (Maurice "Mobetta" Brown - trumpet, vocals / Chelsea Barat -sax, vocals / Solomon Doesey - bass, vocals / Josh Connelly - guitar, vocals / Warren Fields - piano / Joe Blaxx – drums)

9:40pm    Lakecia Benjamin (Lakecia Benjamin - sax / Nicole Phifer - vocals / Jonathon Powell - trumpet / Corey Bernhard - keys / Solomon Dorsey - bass / Jamieson Ledonio - guitar / Eric brown – drums)

11:00pm  Al Strong (Al Strong - trumpet / Blu Thompson - sax / JC Martin - guitar / Jonathan Edward Thomas - piano / Rashaan Carter - bass / Jeremy "Bean” Clemons - drums / Brevan Hampden - percussion

12:20am  Ben Williams & Sound Effect (Ben Williams - bass / Christian Sands - piano / John Davis - drums / Marcus Strickland - saxophones / Matt Stevens - guitar / Bendji Alliance – percussions)

1:40am    Theo Croker (Theo Croker - trumpet / Kassa Overall - drums / Anthony Ware - sax / Michael King - keys / Eric Wheeler - bass / Ben Munson – guitar)

DJ Mark de Clive Lowe spins all night

 

 

Zinc Bar 82 West 3rd Street NYC

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:20pm    Cyro Baptista Banquet of Spirits (Cyro Baptista - percussion / Tim Keiper - drums / Brian Marsalla - keyboard / Shanir Ezra Blumenkranz - oud/bass)

7:40pm    James Brandon Lewis (James Brandon Lewis - tenor saxophone / Luke Stewart- electric bass / Warren “Trae” Crudup – drums)

9:00pm    Yosvany Terry Quintet (Yosvany Terry - alto & soprano saxophones, chekeré / Michael Rodriguez - trumpet / Manuel Valera - piano / Hans Glawischnig - bass / Obed Calvaire – drums)

10:20pm  Rene Marie (Rene Marie - vocals / Jon Cowherd - piano / Jerome Jennings - drums / Elias Bailey – bass)

11:40pm  Gregorio Uribe Big Band

1:00am    Pedrito Martinez (Pedrito Martinez - congas, canon, vocals / Jhair Sala - bongos, bell, vocals / Alvaro Benavides - electric bass, vocals / Edgar Pantoja-Aleman - keyboards, vocals)

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

7:40pm    Meklit (Meklit - vocals, acoustic guitar / Sam Bevan - bass / Lorca Hart - drums / Marco Peris - percussion / Jonathan Finlayson - trumpet / Ernest Stuart – trombone)

9:00pm    Tongues in Trees (Samita Sinha - vocals / Grey Mcmurray - guitars, vocals / Sunny Jain – drums)

10:20pm  Jay Rodriguez Evolutions (Jay Rodriguez - reeds and flutes / Reut Regev - trombone and flugabone / Carolyn Leonhard - vocals / Angel Rogers - vocals / Josh Werner - bass / Pablo Vergara - keys / Billy Kilson – drums / Nappy G – percussion)

11:40pm  Chris Washburne's Acid Mambo Project (Chris Washburne - trombone / John Walsh - trumpet / Ole Mathisen - saxophone / Hector Martignon - piano / Leo Traversa - bass / Vince Cherico - drums / Oreste Abrantes – congas)

1:00am    Late Night Jam Session

 

 

Greenwich House School 46 Barrow Street NYC

(NY Hot Jazz Festival Stage) 

 

Friday January 15th 2016

6:20pm    Tom McDermott (Tom McDermott – piano)

7:20pm    Bumper Jacksons (Jess Eliot Mhyre - vocals, clarinet, washboard / Chris Ousley - guitar, backup vocals / Alex Laquement - bass, vocals / Dan Samuels - drums / David Hadley - pedal steel guitar)

8:40pm    Evan Christopher's Clarinet Road featuring Hilary Gardner (Evan Christopher - clarinet / Hilary Gardner - vocals / Ehud Asherie - piano / Jackie Williams – drums)

10:00pm  Jon-Erik Kellso & The EarRegulars (Jon-Erik Kellso & The EarRegulars    Jon-Erik Kellso - trumpet / Matt Munisteri - guitar / Evan Christopher - clarinet / Pat O’Leary – bass) 

11:20pm  Mike Davis' New Wonders (Mike Davis - cornet / Jay Rattman - bass sax / Ricky Alexander - clarinet / Emily Asher, trombone; Glenn Crytzer, banjo; Jay Lepley, drums)

 

 

 

Saturday January 16th 2016

6:20pm    Christian Sands (Christian Sands – piano)

7:20pm    Michael Mwenso & Brianna Thomas Louis & Ella tribute (Michael Mwenso - vocals / Brianna Thomas - vocals / TBD - trumpet / TBD - piano / TBD - guitar / TBD - bass / TBD – drums)

8:40pm    Rhythm Future Quartet (Jason Anick - violin / Olli Soikkeli - guitar / Vinny Raniolo - guitar / Greg Loughman - bass )

10:00pm  Tatiana Eva-Marie & The Avalon Jazz Band  (Tatiana Eva-Marie - vocals / Adrien Chevalier - violin / Olli Soikkeli - guitar / Vinny Raniolo - guitar / TBD - bass / TBD - reeds 

11:20pm  Gordon Au's Grand St Stompers with Tamar Korn and Molly Ryan (Gordon Au - trumpet / Dennis Lichtman - clarinet / Matt Musselman - trombone / Nick Russo - guitar/banjo / Kevin Dorn - drums / Rob Adkins - bass / Tamar Korn – vocals)

 

 

The Django at Roxy Hotel 2 6th Ave NYC

 

Friday January 15th

6:20pm    Camila Meza (Camila Meza - guitar, vocals / James Francies - piano / Linda Oh - bass / Kendrick Scott – drums)

7:40pm    Nicole Henry  (Nicole Henry - vocals / Dave Cook - piano / Ron Blake - saxophone / Mark Whitfield - guitar / David Chiverton - drums / TBA – bass)

9:00pm    Gilad Hekselman (Gilad Hekselman - guitar / Mark Turner - saxophone / Marcus Gilmore - drums / Joe Martin - bass

10:20pm  Marika Hughes (Marika Hughes - vocals, cello / Kyle Sanna - guitar / Fred Cash - electric bass / Tony Mason - drums / Ryan Porter – trombone)

11:40pm  Eli Degibri (Eli Degibri - saxophone / Gadi Lehavi - piano / Doug Weiss - bass / Obed Calvaire – drums)

 

Saturday January 16th (French Quarter Showcase)

7:00pm    Emile Parisien Quartet (Emile Parisien - saxophone / Ivan Gelugne - double bass / Julien Touery - piano / Julien Loutelier – drums)

8:20pm    Véronique Hermann Sambin (Véronique Hermann Sambin - vocals / Fred Nardin - piano / Xavier Richardeau - sax / Samuel Hubert - bass / Romain Sarron – drums)

9:40pm    Thiefs & Guests (David Frazie - drums, vocals, electronics / Christophe Panzani - saxophone, electronics / Keith Witty - bass, electronics)

11:00pm  Samy Daussat "Gypsy Tribute to Serge Gainsbourg" (Samy Daussat - gypsy guitar / Stéphane Cochet - Fender Rhodes / Claudius Dupont - double bass / Vanina De Franco – vocal)

12:20am  Sylvain Rifflet (Sylvain Rifflet - tenor saxophone, clarinet, music box / Benjamin Flament - percussions, processed metal / Philippe Gordiani - guitar / Jocelyn Mienniel - flute, kalimba)

 

 

 

2016 WINTER JAZZFEST PARTICIPATING VENUES:

The New School, Various Locations

Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street NYC

Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square South NYC

Zinc Bar, 82 West 3rd Street NYC

The Bitter End, 147 Bleecker Street NYC

Greenwich House Music School, 46 Barrow Street, NYC

Subculture, 45 Bleecker Street, NYC

The Greene Space at WNYC & WQXR, 44 Charlton Street, NYC

Webster Hall, 125 East 11th Street, NYC

The Django at Roxy Hotel, 2 6th Ave, NYC

 

 

2016 WINTER JAZZFEST TICKETING OPTIONS:

 

Multi-Day Festival Pass Options:

$75  -  2-day WJF Marathon Pass (January 15 AND 16)

$145  -  5-day WJF Full Festival Five-Day Pass (includes Jan 13 - 17 shows)

 

Individual Tickets & Marathon Passes:

Jan 13 - The Ex, Bill Laswell, Colin Stetson:  $20 ADV, $25 DOS

Jan 14 - Kamasi Washington & Guests:  $40 ADV, $50 DOS

Jan 15/16 - Winter Jazzfest Marathon Nights:  $45 1-day / $75 2-day

Jan 17 - ROVA’s Electric Ascension, Nels Cline:  $25 ADV, $30 DOS

 

APAP Delegate Discounted Admission:

(RSVP Required for verification and discount codes)

If you are a 2016 registered APAP delegate you have the opportunity to attend the 2016 NYC Winter Jazzfest Marathon at a reduced price, please rsvp@winterjazzfest.com for more details.  

 

 

FOLLOW US FOR UPDATES:

Website:  winterjazzfest.com

Twitter:   twitter.com/NYCWJF

Facebook:  facebook.com/WinterJazzfest

Instagram:  instagram.com/nycwjf

 

 

Kim Smith

public relations

718 858 2557 (w)

917 349 8090 (c)

ksmithpr@earthlink.net

 

The Jazz Connect Conference has announced the second recipient of the Bruce Lundvall Visionary Award, created in 2014 in honor of the esteemed jazz record executive who was a champion and advocate for so many jazz artists over the last four decades.  The annual award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and vision in expanding the audience for jazz and who has made a real difference for the artists, the music and the audience. The award’s first recipient was SFJAZZ founder and executive director Randall Kline, based not only on his long career as a jazz presenter and champion, but also on the herculean task of establishing the SFJAZZ Center in 2013.

Brice Rosenbloom, founder of the BOOM Collective and organizer of Winter Jazzfest, the Undead Music Festival, the BRIC Jazz Festival and other innovative live events, as well as music director of Le Poisson Rouge, will receive the award on the opening day of the Jazz Connect Conference on Thursday, January 14, 2016, as part of the keynote session. 

Rosenbloom, a graduate of Northwestern University, worked with SF Jazz, Central Park SummerStage, Jazz at Lincoln Center, MAKOR/92nd Street Y, and the Knitting Factory before launching BOOM Collective (formerly boomBOOM Presents) in the fall of 2006. The organization brings a broad array of live music to thousands of New Yorkers every year around the city. BOOM Collective has been instrumental in programming concerts at various venues and festivals around the city including NYC Winter Jazzfest, Undead Music Festival, Jazz & Colors at The Met, Jazz & Colors Central Park, BRIC Jazzfest, Brooklyn Masonic Temple, Stuytown Music On The Oval Summer Concert Series, The Town Hall, The Apollo Theater, Celebrate Brooklyn, Central Park SummerStage, Merkin Concert Hall, Red Bull Music Academy, Hammerstein Ballroom, Travel+Leisure's Global Bazaar, Drom, The Bell House, Littlefield and at other NYC venues. In 2008 Rosenbloom was appointed the Music Director at Le Poisson Rouge and helped launch the programming vision for the new West Village venue at the site of the former Village Gate.  Rosenbloom and BOOM Collective continue to curate a broad musical vision on additional stages around the city and beyond. 

Peter Gordon, of the Jazz Forward Coalition and one the event’s organizers, said that Rosenbloom’s unique approach to presenting jazz made him an obvious choice for the award. “Brice is the embodiment of a free thinker who takes action,” said Gordon. “The extraordinary success of Winter Jazzfest has shined a fresh light on the spirit and vigor of jazz and its reflections cast a glow on the jazz community as a whole.” Fellow conference organizer and JazzTimes publisher Lee Mergner added that, “Brice has managed to do what other jazz presenters have talked about doing for the last 25 years–bring a younger audience to the music without sacrificing its integrity.”

Trumpeter and bandleader Steven Bernstein will introduce Rosenbloom during the keynote session at the Jazz Connect Conference. Bernstein has known Rosenbloom since he first came on the NYC live music scene in 1998.  “Brice is what I call a true believer,” said Bernstein. “I don't know why else he would be doing what he's doing. His Winter Jazzfest has become a NYC jazz institution—important socially, musically and economically.  What I really like about him is that I can be brutally honest with him, and we can still create art and business together.  That’s the kind of mensch that I'm always happy to see.”

For his part, Rosenbloom says about the award: “It is an absolute honor to be recognized by my peers, friends and colleagues for doing what I love by supporting this music.  The music has always been an inspiration for my work, and the musicians that dedicate their lives to creating and performing are my constant motivation and driving force.  I am humbled to receive an award named after a true champion of this music, Bruce Lundvall.  Like Bruce, I hope to continue to support the music, its audience and its future.”

 

Paul de Barros reports for the Seattle Times on the Jazz Connect Conference and Winter Jazzfest here.  http://blogs.seattletimes.com/soundposts/2015/01/15/jazz-connect-winter-jazzfest-a-new-york-state-of-mind-festival-review/

The 2015 NYC WINTER JAZZFEST
Thursday January 8th - Saturday January 10^th

Celebrating our 11^th year!

Winterjazzfest.com
#WJFNYC
 
Tentative Lineup (subject to change)…

Alfredo Rodríguez Trio

Alicia Olatuja

Ambrose Akinmusire Quartet

Amina Claudine Myers Trio

Andrew D'Angelo's Sounds Like Fun

Anthony Pirog

Arturo O’Farrill Sextet

Bria Skonberg

The Campbell Brothers - A Sacred Steel Love Supreme

David Murray Clarinet Summit w/ Don Byron, David Krakauer, and Hamiet Bluiett

David Murray Infinity Quartet with Saul Williams

David Murray w/ Geri Allen and Terri Lyne Carrington

Derrick Hodge

Eivind Opsvik's Overseas

Hadar Noiberg Trio

ICP Orchestra

JD Allen Trio w/Gregg August & Rudy Royston

Jose James presents "Yesterday I Had The Blues: The Music of Billie Holiday”

Ken Vandermark & Nate Wooley

Kendrick Scott Oracle

Kneebody + Daedelus

Kris Davis' Infrasound

Mark Turner Quartet

Michael Bates' Northern Spy

Lionel Loueke Trio

Robert Glasper Trio

Rudresh Mahanthappa's Bird Calls (The Charlie Parker Project)

Ryan Keberle Catharsis

SFJAZZ Collective: Originals and the Music of Michael Jackson

So Percussion feat. Man Forever

Strange and Beautiful: The Music of John Lurie and The Lounge Lizards

Taylor Eigsti's Free Agency

Theo Bleckmann Quartet

Todd Clouser A Love Electric

Travis Laplante's Battle Trance

TRIO 3 (Oliver Lake, Reggie Workman, Andrew Cyrille) w/ special guest TBA

Troker

Uri Caine / Han Bennik Duo

Zongo Junction

 

+ more to be announced soon...

 

:: Festival Passes go on Sale this Friday November 21 ::

 

The NYC WINTER JAZZFEST turns 11 years old in 2015.  The festival will feature more than 100 different groups including over 400 musicians during three days in 11 venues in and around Greenwich Village from January 8th through January 10th.  Winter Jazzfest upholds the continued mission to showcase top quality jazz to industry professionals, avid jazz fans, and new audiences.

Winter Jazzfest was established in 2005 with the goal of introducing underexposed artists – those that impacted the jazz scene of that period -- to professional presenters attending the Arts Presenters Conference (APAP).  At that time, jazz groups were underrepresented, although they were (and remain) culturally essential to the continued development and future of the music and audiences.  Winter Jazzfest is pleased to continue our mission of offering a forum for presenters and music enthusiasts to experience and support the rich future of jazz.

Winter Jazzfest has showcased artists including Lawrence D. “Butch” Morris, Henry Threadgill, The Bad Plus, David Murray, Jason Moran, Meshell Ndegeocello, John Medeski, Nels Cline, Marc Ribot, Don Byron, Dave Douglas, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Nicholas Payton, Roy Hargrove, Ravi Coltrane, Peter Brötzmann and developing artists that have gone on to perform in concert halls, performing arts centers, festivals and prominent clubs around the world such as Gregory Porter, Vijay Iyer, Anat Cohen, Robert Glasper, JD Allen, Gretchen Parlato, Jenny Scheinman, Jonathan Batiste, Kneebody, So Percussion, Darcy James Argue, Ambrose Akinmusire, Amir Elsaffar, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Mary Halvorson and hundreds more that, today, thrive in a richer and more energized music scene. 

Kicking off the 2015 festival Winter Jazzfest celebrates two different events on Thursday, January 8, 2015. BLUE NOTE NOW! features Winter Jazzfest treasures including Robert Glasper Trio / Jose James Presents:  Yesterday I Had The Blues: The Music of Billie Holiday / Derrick Hodge / Kendrick Scott Oracle at Le Poisson Rouge. Also that night WJF is pleased to support a benefit concert Jazz Legends for Disability Pride with legendary musicians Ron Carter, Renee Rosnes, Russell Malone, Brad Mehldau, George Coleman, Benny Golson, Jimmy Cobb, Peter Bernstein and more. More details about Disability Pride NYC are found at disabilitypridenyc.com. 

On January 9 and 10 Winter Jazzfest continues with our signature multi-venue marathon nights with dozens of groups performing at staggered times throughout each night inside venues all located in the Village within close proximity.  We will feature a David Murray Revue including a Clarinet Summit where Murray will be joined by Don Byron, Hamiet Bluiett, and David Krakauer; Murray’s Infinity Quartet with special guest Saul Williams; and a trio project with Geri Allen and Terri Lyne Carrington. 

Winter Jazzfest is also proud to bring the legendary ICP Orchestra over from Amsterdam. The ensemble has been constantly evolving since 1967 and their performances are a uniquely personal blend of the improvised and the composed, reflecting the adventure, spirit and humor within every member of the large group. ICP founder Han Bennik will also appear at Winter Jazzfest in duo formation with New York pianist Uri Caine, and multiple members of ICP will perform at the Improvised Round Robin Duets.  These performances are supported as part of the Dutch Culture USA program by the Consulate General of the Netherlands in New York, by the Netherland America Foundation, and Fonds Podiumkunsten. 

The 2015 NYC Winter Jazzfest also welcomes support and partnerships from WBGO, Blue Note Records, Disability Pride NYC, Revive Music Group, Sixpoint Brewery and Search & Restore.

Single-day, Two-day, and Full festival passes will be available for purchase on Friday November 21st at 10:00am.  Ticket links are available at winterjazzfest.com.

Winter Jazzfest welcomes all Arts Presenter conference badge-holders to obtain a discounted Two-Day Marathon Pass to the 2015 NYC WINTER JAZZFEST (good for Jan 9 & 10) by emailing rsvp@winterjazzfest.com. Only 2015 APAP conference attendees are aboe to RSVP for the discounted pass.

 

2015 NYC WINTER JAZZFEST GENERAL SCHEDULE:

Thursday January 8th 2015 (at LPR)

NYC Winter Jazzfest presents: 

BLUE NOTE NOW!

w/ Robert Glasper Trio / Jose James Presents:  Yesterday I Had The Blues: The Music of Billie Holiday / Derrick Hodge / Kendrick Scott Oracle

7pm - Doors / 8pm Show

$25 ADV, $30 DOS 

$75  3-day WJF pass (includes this show and the Jan 9/10 WJF marathon nights)

Thursday January 8th 2015 (at The Quaker’s Friends Meeting House on 15 Rutherford Place)

NYC Winter Jazzfest supports:

Jazz Legends play for Disability Pride NYC

w/ Ron Carter, Renee Rosnes, Russell Malone, Brad Mehldau, George Coleman, Benny Golson, Jimmy Cobb, Peter Bernstein, Buster Williams, Mike LeDonne, Harold Mabern, John Webber, Joe Farnsworth, Bill Charlap, Kenny Washington +more

7pm - Doors / 8pm Show

$100 

$145  3-day WJF pass (includes this show and the Jan 9/10 WJF marathon nights)

 

 

Friday January 9th 2015 

Saturday January 10th 2015

NYC Winter Jazzfest Marathon

5pm - Box Office Opens, Passes Available for Purchase and Pickup at Judson Church, 55 Washington Square South

$35  Single-Day WJF Pass

$55  2-day WJF Pass

$75  3-day WJF Pass (includes the Blue Note Now show at LPR on 1/8)

$145  3-day WJF Pass (included the Jazz Legends play for Disability Pride NYC show on 1/8)

$40  APAP 2-Day Pass (Jan 9 and 10 only)

$55  APAP VIP 2-Day Pass (Jan 9 and 10 only, and includes priority access to all venues) 

 

:: Passes Go on Sale This Friday November 21 ::

 

 

2015 WINTER JAZZFEST PARTICIPATING VENUES:

Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street NYC

Minetta Lane Theater, 18-22 Minetta Lane NYC 

Judson Church, 55 Washington Square South NYC

The Players Theater, 115 Macdougal Street NYC 

Blue Note, 131 W 3rd St, NYC

Zinc Bar, 82 West 3rd Street NYC

The Bitter End, 147 Bleecker Street NYC

Subculture, 45 Bleecker Street NYC

Bowery Electric, 327 Bowery NYC

Carroll Place, 157 Bleecker Street NYC 

The Quaker’s Friends Meeting House, 15 Rutherford Place NYC

Check winterjazzfest.com for the full lineup, schedule updates, and more details. 

Kim Smith

public relations

718 858 2557 (w)

917 349 8090 (c)

ksmithpr@earthlink.net

The Jazz Connect Conference is pleased to announce that Randall Kline, founder and executive artistic director of SFJAZZ, is the first recipient of the Bruce Lundvall Visionary Award, presented by Jazz Connect.  He will receive the award on Thursday, January 8, 2015 at the Jazz Connect Conference in New York City.  Held at Saint Peter’s Church, the two-day conference brings together members of the international jazz community for a series of panels, workshops and events, all dedicated to expanding the audience for jazz.

The formation of the award was announced at the 2014 Jazz Connect Conference at the culmination of a panel (sponsored by NARAS) saluting Lundvall’s legacy and featuring Michael Cuscuna, Robert Glasper and Jason Moran. The Bruce Lundvall Visionary Award, presented by Jazz Connect, was created in honor of the longtime jazz record executive who was a champion and advocate for so many jazz artists over the last four decades.  The annual award recognizes someone who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and vision in expanding the audience for jazz and who has made a real difference for the artists, the music and the audience.

Commenting on the Visionary Award being named for him, Lundvall said, "I am truly humbled and honored by this award and was amazed to first learn of it. I have always approached my job with passion and honesty. I love jazz so much. It's provided me with my life's work, filled with rich experiences through relationships with many special artists and talented executives."

Peter Gordon, of the Jazz Forward Coalition and one of the organizers of the conference, said that, “Empowered by Bruce’s gracious grandeur, we wanted his legacy memorialized with a new standard of excellence, to drive us to places we never thought achievable.” He added, “Though we are all soldiers on the battlefield, this award is Jazz Connect’s recognition of an against-all-odds effort that an individual has had to shoulder to make the impossible possible and challenge the rest of us to do the same.”

The organizers of the Jazz Connect Conference chose Kline as the first recipient, based on not only a long career as a jazz presenter and champion, but also based on the herculean task of establishing the SFJAZZ Center in 2013.  The Center comprises 35,000 square feet in a transparent and open structure features the state-of-the-art Robert N. Miner Auditorium with seating adjustable from 350 to 700, the 100-seat multi-purpose Joe Henderson Lab, rehearsal spaces, digital learning lab, South at SFJAZZ (bar/café from renowned chef Charles Phan), ground floor lobby, retail shop/box office, and SFJAZZ administrative offices.  The SFJAZZ Center is the result of a $64 million capital campaign that was completed in September of 2014.

Lundvall reinforced Kline’s unique contributions to the jazz community. "Randall is a true visionary, working in the most important jazz city in America after New York City,” said Lundvall.  “The new SFJAZZ Center has attracted great artists and he's put the city on the map which has reinforced his venue and the city as the west coast center for jazz."

SFJAZZ – originally titled Jazz in the City -- was founded in 1983 with a seed grant from Grants for the Arts of the San Francisco Hotel Tax Fund. Seventeen years later in December of 1999 Kline announced the establishment of SFJAZZ, the San Francisco Jazz Organization, a much-expanded organization with year-round concert and educational programs. The SFJAZZ Collective – now the resident ensemble of the SFJAZZ Center -- was established in 2004 and its eight members are commissioned to write a new composition and new arrangement of jazz’ modern masters. The Collective has produced over 71 original compositions and 75 new arrangements in its 10 years – all recorded and produced by SFJAZZ.

Kline currently serves on the board of directors of Chamber Music America, the Western Jazz Presenters Network, and is member of the Board of Governors of the University of California Humanities Research Institute.  “This is such an honor,” said Kline. “Bruce is one of the true beacons of the jazz and music business and it is humbling to be considered for an award that is named in his honor.”

Pre-registration is only $125 until December 15, with additional discounts offered to members of various partner organizations, including APAP, Jazz Journalists Association, Chamber Music America, AFM – Local 802, JazzWeek and others. For more information about the Jazz Connect Conference, go to www.jazz-connect.com or email jazzconnectnyc@gmail.com or call (617) 315-9158.

 

 

 

Here's a video interview with Don Lucoff of PDX Jazz and DL Media, talking about the origins of the Jazz Connect Conference:

A History of Jazz at Saint Peter’s

 

By James E. Pitt (written in 2003)

 

In the beginning, nearly 39 years ago, many churchgoers as well as the jazz community looked with varying degrees of suspicion, bewilderment, and apprehension at a singular action of the Lutheran Church in America's Board of American Missions: an official call for a full-time Pastor to the Jazz Community--the first of its kind in the world.

   

That unusual announcement in 1965 was a milestone in religious annals, culminating several years of service and devotion to a pastoral ministry to a very diversified, talented and peripatetic group of human beings.

 

Like jazz, the Ministry evolved not from a traditional music score or long theological study, but spontaneously, ad lib, from deep feelings and needs. It was, in fact, invented and nurtured into being by John Garcia Gensel. As the Board noted in its recommendations: "There is a jazz  community which needs a Christian ministry and, in Pastor Gensel, our church has a qualified and experienced missionary."

 

Equally important, despite some early doubts and fears, members of Saint Peter's Church accepted both the missionary (as Associate Pastor) and the mission as a vital new work of the Church and unstintingly gave financial and affectionate support through the years.

 

Some congregants, of course, still have trouble distinguishing between ragtime and a riff. But they have watched and prayed and participated and grown in their appreciation of the need for and the spiritual validity of the Ministry. Through changed customs and disrupted patterns of worship, hand-clapping, foot-stomping crowds with an astounding range of dress, ethnic back-ground, speech and decorum, and unfamiliar, sometimes disturbing tonalities, the congregation has steadfastly kept the faith and the Ministry alive and well. And for most, there is today a quiet pride that the Ministry's unique attraction for all media has helped make Saint Peter's "The First Church of Jazz" and one of the best-known Lutheran churches in the world.

 

It was almost miraculously serendipitous that such a man and mission were joined. Born February 16, 1917, in the tiny Puerto Rican village of Manatã, the young Juan Garcia hardly seemed the candidate for the titular accolades he would earn in later years: the patron saint of jazz, the human jazzmobile and, in Duke Ellington's tone poem from his Second Sacred Concert dedicated to his "Special Reverend, The Shepherd Who Watches Over the Night Flock.”

 

The struggling Garcia family felt young Juan would have a better opportunity on the mainland and sent him (at the age of six) to live with an aunt (whose family name was Gensel) in the small farming town of Catawissa, Pennsylvania. He got on well, became a hard-working student and a baseball and soccer star in high school. In 1933, then a teenager, he went to a dance in Berwick, Pennsylvania, saw and heard the great Ellington Orchestra, and became a lifelong fan of what Dr. Billy Taylor has named "America's classical music."

 

John Garcia Gensel went on to complete his college and seminary studies and entered the ministry in Mansfield, Ohio. He next served as a Navy Chaplain on Guam, then as "Atomic Pastor" to nuclear power plant workers living in trailers in Ohio. After ministering to two congregations in Puerto Rico, he was assigned to New York's Advent Lutheran Church at Broadway and 93rd Street in 1956. During this time, when the Big Apple's concrete canyons were alive with the sound of swing, Pastor Gensel's interest in jazz continued and expanded. He read jazz historian Marshall Stern's book, The Story of Jazz, attended Stern's course at the New School, and began visiting jazz clubs as part of the curriculum. He loved the music but, more importantly, he began to know, talk with and understand the special lives and problems of the musicians. They soon responded to his warm and open manner and his genuine interest in their music and their troubles.

 

For three years, he "moonlighted" as a missionary to the night people. But the hours got longer and longer and he persuaded church officials to allow him to devote half his time to the cause. In 1965 the full-fledged Ministry came into being. As one writer then noted: "It is a highly unusual flock—one not defined by dogma or measured by geography, assets or membership rolls."

 

The first of over 1,500 Jazz Vespers, the most visible part of this unorthodox Ministry, was held in 1965 with Pastor Gensel and trumpeter Joe Newman collaborating on a jazz service composition, “O Sing to the Lord a New Song.” In 1970, the first All Nite Soul, a 12-hour jazz marathon, was held to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Jazz Vespers. In October 1995, the 25th anniversary of what is now the city's longest-running jazz festival will be celebrated.

 

Vespers and other services, special concerts, the commissioning of jazz masses and other compositions for Vespers, have provided hundreds of jazz artists with opportunities to communicate with God in their own words, with music they feel, and in an atmosphere of acceptance. Before the Jazz Ministry, neither the jazz performer nor the music that is his or her life seemed welcome in any church. Now it is as natural for Eddie Bonnmere or Tommy Flanagan to sit down in the sanctuary at the keyboard of Billy Strayhorn's personal Steinway (which he donated to the Ministry) or Jane Jarvis to swing a Christmas carol, as it is for Choirmaster Thomas E. Schmidt to play “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” on Saint Peter's famed Klais pipe organ.

 

Pastor Gensel, as his successor Pastor Lind continued to do, officiated at many weddings and baptisms, as well as countless funerals and memorial services for both little-known and legendary musicians and champions of jazz, including Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, King Curtis, John Coltrane, Coleman Hawkins, Thelonious Monk, Eubie Blake, Alberta Hunter, Erroll Garner, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, Roy Eldridge, Sarah Vaughan, Teddy Wilson, Major Holley, Zoot Sims, Eddie Barefield, Bill Evans, Mel Lewis, John Hammond, Barney Josephson, and Max Gordon.

 

In January 1994, Pastor Gensel retired and Dale Lind, who was the interim jazz pastor, received the unanimous recommendation of Saint Peter's Parish Council and the affirmative vote of the congregation in July 1994 to succeed Pastor Gensel as Pastor to the Jazz Community.

 

A longtime jazz aficionado, Pastor Lind has been a friend and associate of Pastor Gensel's for more than 30 years. Both attended the same seminary in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Born in York, Pennsylvania, Pastor Lind received his Bachelor of Divinity in 1964 from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, and a Mas-ter of Sacred Theology in 1970 from the New York Theological Seminary. His first call was in 1964 from Saint Peter's congregation to be its Assistant Pastor. In 1968, he accepted a call to special service in a self-supporting "Worker-Priest" ministry of the Metropolitan New York Synod. He served in that capacity until the late 1970s.

 

Pastor Lind credits Dave Brubeck's 45 rpm recording of “Take Five” with triggering his life-time love of the makers and sounds of jazz, aided by campus concerts of big band greats such as Count Basie and Tommy Dorsey. He met John Garcia Gensel when Pastor Gensel came to speak at the Seminary in the early 1960s. When Pastor Lind settled in New York he often made the rounds with Pastor Gensel to such clubs as the Half Note, Five Spot, Birdland, and Slugs, and met and heard such noted musicians as John Coltrane, Joe Williams, Ramsey Lewis, Lou Rawls and many others. His extracurricular work—bartending at Miss Lacey's Supper Club and Knicker's Restaurant, running Preacher's (his own jazz club), and co-owning the Bitter End/Other End Cafe in Greenwich Village—also brought him into close touch with many musicians. Pastor Lind still resides in the Village near the jazz scene, now with his wife Marsha Clark Lind.

 

Over the years, the Jazz Ministry at Saint Peter's has faithfully nourished the traditions and forms of the art of jazz with love and respect, while nurturing, counseling, and befriending thousands of musicians, their families and friends in time of need. With the installation of Pastor Lind, the Ministry stands at the threshold of its fourth decade of making joyful noise to the Lord, and supporting the people who make and love that music.

 

                                                          - - - - - - - - - - - -

 

Today the Jazz Ministry at Saint Peter's nears its 50th year, hosting an annual All Nite Soul Festival, Midday Jazz, Jazz on the Plaza concerts, Jazz 4 All workshops, memorials and many creative programs.  Bassist/composer Ike Sturm serves as the music director for the Jazz Ministry and creates new music for weekly Sunday jazz services at 5pm.  www.saintpeters.org