JAZZ ROOM Season 19 Features a Star-Studded Lineup

From an iconic jazz labels’ newest legend and a millennial shaking up the jazz world to a group preserving the past an innovative modern jazz guitarist, Season 19 of the JAZZ ROOM has something for every jazz fan. Starting with Grammy-Award nominated saxophonist Joshua Redman on October 6-7 at The Booth Playhouse, this season features diverse talents representing a wide range of artistry in modern, traditional, and international jazz.

Trumpeter and vocalist Bria Skonberg brings her quartet for its JAZZ ROOM debut on Nov. 17-18. One of the most versatile musicians on the jazz scene today, she is best known for her unique compositions, blending many influences, from soulful classics to country to modern jazz. Dubbed “the shining hope of hot jazz” by the NY Times, Skonberg has been a featured artist at hundreds of festivals and stages the world over. Described as “one of the most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation” (Wall Street Journal), Bria has performed with Jon Batiste, Wycliffe Gordon, Stephane Wrembel, Steven Bernstein and U2. She brings her own signature sounds of fiery trumpet playing, smoky vocals and storytelling together with adventurous concoctions of classic and new.

Next, the world-renowned Preservation Hall All-Stars return to kick off the JAZZ ROOM holiday season on Dec. 1-2 with a lively and traditional New Orleans jazz twist. New Orleans’ Preservation Hall was established in 1961 to honor Traditional New Orleans Jazz. The Preservation Hall All-Stars are the premiere ensemble of the most tenured artists from the collective. Each performer bears a unique connection to the earliest practitioners of jazz itself, some by bloodline but all united by the sheer power of tradition. These culture bearers continue to pass the torch to the younger generation through education and music outreach. The festivities will include a silent auction supporting the JazzArts Academy, performance-based programs, and local musicians.

Renowned jazz trombonist, multi-instrumentalist and composer Wycliffe Gordon and his quartet make their JAZZ ROOM debut to start the New Year on Jan. 11-12, with a festive weekend of soulful music rooted in the blues and gospel traditions. Gordon is a renowned musician, composer, conductor, and arranger whose work you probably hear every day. An original member of Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, his arrangement of the theme song to NPR’s “All Things Considered” is heard daily across the globe. His “Jazz a la Carte” was named one of the five best moments in jazz by the Wall Street Journal. He has been awarded Downbeat Magazine’s “Best Trombone” award 6 times, and the Jazz Journalists Association “Trombonist of the Year” Award for 14 years.

Next up, award-winning Pakistani-American modern jazz guitarist and composer Rez Abbasi and his quartet make their JAZZ ROOM debut Feb. 23-24, bringing their signature sounds that push boundaries while preserving tradition. Considered by many to be one of the foremost modern jazz guitar players in the world, his music is a vivid synthesis of his roots in Pakistan, his childhood in California, and schooling in jazz and classical sounds. His 2005 recording “Snake Charmer” created a stir due to his organic approach in blending two complex musical genres – jazz and Indian music. His vivid sound encompasses provocative instrumentation with a unique and lively mix of rhythms and textures that will keep you on the edge of your seat for this special JAZZROOM experience.

We wrap up the season with a celebration of Women’s History Month as the JAZZ ROOM welcomes renowned drummer and bandleader, Sherrie Maricle and FIVE PLAY on March 15-16. This quintet is comprised of members from the world-famous Jazz DIVA Orchestra rhythm section with two of its foremost soloists. This collective is rooted in the jazz tradition with a “creative vision to swing through the twenty-first century.” They exude the excitement and force of historic big bands combined with an eye toward today’s progressive sounds of originality and verve. The band also co-stars in the award-winning documentary film The Girls in the Band.

Secure your tickets now for these amazing shows that are certain to sell out fast.