Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23, 2026
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
About Portsmouth Jazz Weekend
This year the annual Seacoast Jazz Festival marks its 43rd year, with the first festival in 1983. We have expanded this year's event to a full weekend of jazz. After the daytime festival in Prescott Park, there will be three jazz shows at The Press Room in Portsmouth. It was at The Press Room, established in 1976, that a love of jazz in the community emerged as a result of the venue's promotion of jazz and hosting of many talented jazz musicians from the region and nationallly who came to perform or jam at The Press Room on a weekly basis.
It became a tradition that following the annual jazz festival, musicians, festival goers, and individuals from the surrounding communities would gather at The Press Room to continue their celebration of jazz music. This year, we are bringing back that much-loved tradition by hosting three special jazz shows at The Press Room on the evening of August 22 following the Seacoast Jazz Festival, and in the morning and evening of August 23.
Join Us for a full weekend of great jazz...
This year the annual Seacoast Jazz Festival marks its 43rd year, with the first festival in 1983. We have expanded this year's event to a full weekend of jazz. After the daytime festival in Prescott Park, there will be three jazz shows at The Press Room in Portsmouth. It was at The Press Room, established in 1976, that a love of jazz in the community emerged as a result of the venue's promotion of jazz and hosting of many talented jazz musicians from the region and nationallly who came to perform or jam at The Press Room on a weekly basis.
It became a tradition that following the annual jazz festival, musicians, festival goers, and individuals from the surrounding communities would gather at The Press Room to continue their celebration of jazz music. This year, we are bringing back that much-loved tradition by hosting three special jazz shows at The Press Room on the evening of August 22 following the Seacoast Jazz Festival, and in the morning and evening of August 23.
Join Us for a full weekend of great jazz...
Weekend Lineup of Jazz Events
Saturday, August 22, Noon-6 PM
43rd Annual Seacoast Jazz Festival
Prescott Park, 105 Marcy St., Portsmouth
No Tickets Needed: You do not need to purchase a ticket to attend the festival.
Optional Recommended Donation: $20
Bring family and friends.
For complete festival info CLICK HERE or go to: www.prescottpark.org/event/43rd-annual-seacoast-jazz-festival
Optional Recommended Donation: $20
Bring family and friends.
For complete festival info CLICK HERE or go to: www.prescottpark.org/event/43rd-annual-seacoast-jazz-festival
Festival Line-Up...
12:00-12:50 Yoko Miwa Trio
1:15-2:05 Soggy Po’ Boys
2:30 – 3:20 Nick Grondin Group
3:20-3:50 Salsa Secrets
3:50-4:40 Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing
5:00-6:00 Seacoast Big BanD
* Rain Date: Sunday, August 23. Please note: the line-up is subject to change in the event of a move to the Rain Date.
12:00-12:50 Yoko Miwa Trio
1:15-2:05 Soggy Po’ Boys
2:30 – 3:20 Nick Grondin Group
3:20-3:50 Salsa Secrets
3:50-4:40 Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing
5:00-6:00 Seacoast Big BanD
* Rain Date: Sunday, August 23. Please note: the line-up is subject to change in the event of a move to the Rain Date.
Three Shows at The Press Room
August 22 and 23, 2026
Ticket Cost:
For a seat(s) in all three Press Room shows: $75/person
For a seat(s) in a single show per person: $32 (pre-sale), $38 (day of)
Saturday, August 22, 6-8 PM, (doors 5pm)
THE PRESS ROOM, 77 Daniel St., Portsmouth
Ed Saindon Quartet
Special Tribute to Les Harris, Jr.
Ed Saindon (vibraphone, piano) and the Good Vibes Trio (Billy Novick, clarinet; Mark Carlsen, upright bass; and Steve Langone, drums) will perform a tribute to the late Les Harris Jr. who was a beautiful person, musician, educator, and loved by all. The concert will be a CD release party for their new recording "One For Les" and will showcase originals from the band including "Ballad For Les" by Mark and "One For Les", a solo vibraphone piece by Ed.
Special Tribute to Les Harris, Jr.
Ed Saindon (vibraphone, piano) and the Good Vibes Trio (Billy Novick, clarinet; Mark Carlsen, upright bass; and Steve Langone, drums) will perform a tribute to the late Les Harris Jr. who was a beautiful person, musician, educator, and loved by all. The concert will be a CD release party for their new recording "One For Les" and will showcase originals from the band including "Ballad For Les" by Mark and "One For Les", a solo vibraphone piece by Ed.
Sunday, August 23, 11 AM-1 PM, (doors 10am)
THE PRESS ROOM, 77 Daniel St., Portsmouth
Artie Bakopolus Quintet
Enjoy a Mix of Jazz with Brunch!
While you're brunching, enjoy a mix of straight-ahead jazz, plus the Great American Songbook, bebop, ballads, Latin jazz, and more with Artie Bakopolus (sax), Jon Wheatley (guiitar), Russ Hoffmann (piano), Bruce Gertz (bass), and Jerzy Glod (drums). A brunch/lunch menu will be available for optional purchase.
Enjoy a Mix of Jazz with Brunch!
While you're brunching, enjoy a mix of straight-ahead jazz, plus the Great American Songbook, bebop, ballads, Latin jazz, and more with Artie Bakopolus (sax), Jon Wheatley (guiitar), Russ Hoffmann (piano), Bruce Gertz (bass), and Jerzy Glod (drums). A brunch/lunch menu will be available for optional purchase.
Sunday, August 23, 6:30-8:30 PM, (doors 5:30pm)
THE PRESS ROOM, 77 Daniel St., Portsmouth
Anick ~ Klaxton ~
Effenberger ~ Connors
"From Ellington to the Beatles"
Seacoast Jazz All-Stars Jason Anick (violin) and Chris Klaxton (trumpet) lead a stellar quartet featuring the one and only Mike Effenberger (Hammond B3 Organ) and Mike Connors (drums). The group performs hard-swinging jazz classics from Ellington to Monk with the occasional funk tune and jazzed up Beatles song mixed in. Don't miss what promises to be a great show by these four outstanding musicians.
Effenberger ~ Connors
"From Ellington to the Beatles"
Seacoast Jazz All-Stars Jason Anick (violin) and Chris Klaxton (trumpet) lead a stellar quartet featuring the one and only Mike Effenberger (Hammond B3 Organ) and Mike Connors (drums). The group performs hard-swinging jazz classics from Ellington to Monk with the occasional funk tune and jazzed up Beatles song mixed in. Don't miss what promises to be a great show by these four outstanding musicians.
About the Musicians (click the event to go to those bios)
Seacoast Jazz Festival
Ed Saindon Quartet
Artie Bakopolus Quintet
Anick - Klaxton - Effenberger - Connors
Ed Saindon Quartet
Artie Bakopolus Quintet
Anick - Klaxton - Effenberger - Connors
Festival Musicians
Noon-12:50pm Yoko Miwa
Internationally acclaimed pianist/composer Yoko Miwa is one of the most powerful and compelling performers on the scene today. Her trio, with its remarkable telepathy and infectious energy, has brought audiences to their feet worldwide. Yoko was named a Rising Star Pianist in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 DownBeat Critics Poll. The Yoko Miwa Trio’s 2021 release Songs of Joy received wide acclaim and reached #1 on national jazz radio charts and was voted a best jazz album of 2021 in the DownBeat 86th Annual Readers Poll. Jazziz called it “a radiant new collection.” CD Hotlist said “…yet another triumph from one of America’s finest jazz pianists, composers, and bandleaders.” Their 2019 CD, Keep Talkin’, showcases Miwa’s fine playing and artful compositions and the trio’s uncanny musical camaraderie. DownBeat gave the recording four stars, calling it “a beautifully constructed album” and noting “the drive and lyricism of a pianist and composer at home in bebop, gospel, pop, and classical.” JazzTimes also reviewed the album favorably, praising Miwa’s “jaw-dropping degree of technique.” The album enjoyed seven weeks in the top 10 on Jazz Week’s charts, much like its predecessor, Miwa’s 2017 release Pathways, which also made Jazz Week’s top 10 for several weeks. In a 2017 feature article on Miwa, DownBeat noted her “impressive technique and a tuneful lyricism that combines an Oscar Peterson-ish hard swing with Bill Evans-like introspection.”
For more than a decade Miwa’s trio has played regularly at major jazz clubs in their home city of Boston, as well as venues around the world. A favorite of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Miwa was chosen to play on “Marian McPartland & Friends,” part of the Coca-Cola Generations in Jazz Festival. She was also chosen to perform at Lincoln Center’s annual Jazz and Leadership Workshop for The National Urban League’s Youth Summit. Miwa also appears regularly at New York’s famed Blue Note Jazz Club as well as Birdland and has performed and/or recorded with a wide range of jazz greats including Sheila Jordan, Slide Hampton, Arturo Sandoval, George Garzone, Jazzmeia Horn, Jon Faddis, Jerry Bergonzi, Esperanza Spalding, Terri Lyne Carrington, Peter Washington, Kevin Mahogany, John Lockwood, Dominique Eade, Calvin Keys, and Johnathan Blake among others. In 2018 she performed on the main stage at the Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Litchfield Jazz Festival, where her trio drew the largest audience of any act. She is a Yamaha Pianos Artist, JVC Victor Entertainment and Ubuntu Music recording artist, 10X nominated and 2019 Winner in the Boston Music Awards as Jazz Artist of the Year, and Boston Phoenix Best Music Poll winner.
Miwa’s story of becoming a jazz musician is full of serendipity and happy twists of fate. In the late 1990s the classically-trained artist auditioned for Berklee College of Music on a lark and ended up winning a full scholarship. She arrived at the school from her homeland of Japan in 1997, intending to stay for a year. In 2022, she’s still in Boston, enriching the city’s musical life and serving as one of the most popular professors in the Berklee piano department.
Act Naturally, the Yoko Miwa Trio’s major label debut in Japan, came out in 2012 on the JVC Victor Entertainment label and the band toured Japan that same year. “She is one of the best jazz pianists in Japan,” said Yozo Iwanami, Jazz Hihyo Magazine.
A native of Kobe, Japan, Miwa didn’t pursue an interest in jazz until she met and studied with Minoru Ozone, a popular television organist and nightclub owner who is the father of pianist Makoto Ozone. Miwa worked at Ozone’s club and as an accompanist and piano instructor at his music school until the great Kobe earthquake of 1995 destroyed both facilities. Then, while continuing to take private lessons from Minoru Ozone, she also pursued musical studies at the Koyo Conservatory in Kobe. From there she won first prize in a scholarship competition to attend Berklee. Miwa quickly began playing with a host of talented students and teachers, and she formed a strong bond with vocal great Kevin Mahogany, who chose the pianist to serve as accompanist in his classes and on his gigs.
Miwa has released nine highly acclaimed CDs: In the Mist of Time (Tokuma, 2000); Fadeless Flower (Polystar, 2002); Canopy of Stars (Polystar, 2004); The Day We Said Goodbye, recorded live at the studios of WGBH-FM (Sunshine Digital, 2006); Live at Scullers (Jazz Cat Amnesty, 2011); Act Naturally (JVC Victor Entertainment, 2012), Pathways (2017), Keep Talkin’ (2019), and Songs of Joy (Ubuntu Music, 2021).
Internationally acclaimed pianist/composer Yoko Miwa is one of the most powerful and compelling performers on the scene today. Her trio, with its remarkable telepathy and infectious energy, has brought audiences to their feet worldwide. Yoko was named a Rising Star Pianist in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 DownBeat Critics Poll. The Yoko Miwa Trio’s 2021 release Songs of Joy received wide acclaim and reached #1 on national jazz radio charts and was voted a best jazz album of 2021 in the DownBeat 86th Annual Readers Poll. Jazziz called it “a radiant new collection.” CD Hotlist said “…yet another triumph from one of America’s finest jazz pianists, composers, and bandleaders.” Their 2019 CD, Keep Talkin’, showcases Miwa’s fine playing and artful compositions and the trio’s uncanny musical camaraderie. DownBeat gave the recording four stars, calling it “a beautifully constructed album” and noting “the drive and lyricism of a pianist and composer at home in bebop, gospel, pop, and classical.” JazzTimes also reviewed the album favorably, praising Miwa’s “jaw-dropping degree of technique.” The album enjoyed seven weeks in the top 10 on Jazz Week’s charts, much like its predecessor, Miwa’s 2017 release Pathways, which also made Jazz Week’s top 10 for several weeks. In a 2017 feature article on Miwa, DownBeat noted her “impressive technique and a tuneful lyricism that combines an Oscar Peterson-ish hard swing with Bill Evans-like introspection.”
For more than a decade Miwa’s trio has played regularly at major jazz clubs in their home city of Boston, as well as venues around the world. A favorite of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Miwa was chosen to play on “Marian McPartland & Friends,” part of the Coca-Cola Generations in Jazz Festival. She was also chosen to perform at Lincoln Center’s annual Jazz and Leadership Workshop for The National Urban League’s Youth Summit. Miwa also appears regularly at New York’s famed Blue Note Jazz Club as well as Birdland and has performed and/or recorded with a wide range of jazz greats including Sheila Jordan, Slide Hampton, Arturo Sandoval, George Garzone, Jazzmeia Horn, Jon Faddis, Jerry Bergonzi, Esperanza Spalding, Terri Lyne Carrington, Peter Washington, Kevin Mahogany, John Lockwood, Dominique Eade, Calvin Keys, and Johnathan Blake among others. In 2018 she performed on the main stage at the Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Litchfield Jazz Festival, where her trio drew the largest audience of any act. She is a Yamaha Pianos Artist, JVC Victor Entertainment and Ubuntu Music recording artist, 10X nominated and 2019 Winner in the Boston Music Awards as Jazz Artist of the Year, and Boston Phoenix Best Music Poll winner.
Miwa’s story of becoming a jazz musician is full of serendipity and happy twists of fate. In the late 1990s the classically-trained artist auditioned for Berklee College of Music on a lark and ended up winning a full scholarship. She arrived at the school from her homeland of Japan in 1997, intending to stay for a year. In 2022, she’s still in Boston, enriching the city’s musical life and serving as one of the most popular professors in the Berklee piano department.
Act Naturally, the Yoko Miwa Trio’s major label debut in Japan, came out in 2012 on the JVC Victor Entertainment label and the band toured Japan that same year. “She is one of the best jazz pianists in Japan,” said Yozo Iwanami, Jazz Hihyo Magazine.
A native of Kobe, Japan, Miwa didn’t pursue an interest in jazz until she met and studied with Minoru Ozone, a popular television organist and nightclub owner who is the father of pianist Makoto Ozone. Miwa worked at Ozone’s club and as an accompanist and piano instructor at his music school until the great Kobe earthquake of 1995 destroyed both facilities. Then, while continuing to take private lessons from Minoru Ozone, she also pursued musical studies at the Koyo Conservatory in Kobe. From there she won first prize in a scholarship competition to attend Berklee. Miwa quickly began playing with a host of talented students and teachers, and she formed a strong bond with vocal great Kevin Mahogany, who chose the pianist to serve as accompanist in his classes and on his gigs.
Miwa has released nine highly acclaimed CDs: In the Mist of Time (Tokuma, 2000); Fadeless Flower (Polystar, 2002); Canopy of Stars (Polystar, 2004); The Day We Said Goodbye, recorded live at the studios of WGBH-FM (Sunshine Digital, 2006); Live at Scullers (Jazz Cat Amnesty, 2011); Act Naturally (JVC Victor Entertainment, 2012), Pathways (2017), Keep Talkin’ (2019), and Songs of Joy (Ubuntu Music, 2021).
1:15-2:05 Soggy Po’ Boys
“Although New Hampshire isn’t the most obvious home for a group so devoted to the culture of The Big Easy, the Soggy Po’ Boys seem genuine in their ambition to spread the word about jazz New Orleans style, and they’re creating an accessible and fun way into this world.”
-London Jazz News
“Although New Hampshire isn’t the most obvious home for a group so devoted to the culture of The Big Easy, the Soggy Po’ Boys seem genuine in their ambition to spread the word about jazz New Orleans style, and they’re creating an accessible and fun way into this world.”
-London Jazz News
The Soggy Po Boys, native to New England, have quickly become an institution. They are spreading the good news of New Orleans music across the northeast and beyond, playing at concert halls and street corners; music festivals and burlesque festivals; bars and libraries; wherever the party requires. Part of the beauty of New Orleans music is that it’s celebrated and appreciated wherever it goes, from the street to the theater.
The Po Boys formed in 2012 to shake the walls of a local club on a Fat Tuesday but have honed their sound and become more than a Mardi Gras centerpiece. Exploring the vast musical traditions of New Orleans and expanding their repertoire to look beyond NOLA jazz, the band includes traditional Caribbean tunes (it’s been said that New Orleans is the northernmost city in the Caribbean), as well as Meters funk, soul, and brass band / street beat music.
There are a myriad of traditions that flow into New Orleans culture just as there are tributaries that feed the Mississippi, and the Po Boys are eager to explore what makes the music of New Orleans so damn special. You’ll hear the heavy influence of the New Orleans sound across the band and in the stories told by their original tunes. In line with the scope of its sound, the outfit is eight people and thrives on the interplay and group dynamics that bring this music to life.
The Soggy Po' Boys are:
Shaina Schwartz : Vocals
Jim Dozet : Vocals + Guitar
Eric Klaxton : Clarinet + Saxophones
Nick Mainella : Tenor Saxophone
Josh Gagnon : Trombone
Mike Effenberger : Piano
Scott Kiefner : Bass
Brian Waterhouse : Drums
Nick Grondin and Friends
2:30 – 3:20 Nick Grondin Group
Nick Grondin – Guitar
Gregory Groover – Saxophones
Jason Palmer – Trumpet
Taylor O’ Donnell – Voice
Mark Shilansky – Keyboards
Fernando Huergo – Bass
Lee Fish – Drums
2:30 – 3:20 Nick Grondin Group
Nick Grondin – Guitar
Gregory Groover – Saxophones
Jason Palmer – Trumpet
Taylor O’ Donnell – Voice
Mark Shilansky – Keyboards
Fernando Huergo – Bass
Lee Fish – Drums
Nick Grondin
An experienced performer and award-winning composer, guitarist Nick Grondin has presented his music to audiences throughout the U.S. and Europe, including France, Italy, Germany, and at the Panama Jazz Festival. The Nick Grondin Group which presents his original music as modern musical storytelling—inspired by rock, folk and contemporary jazz styles. Their latest album, A View of Earth, features producer/pianist Jon Cowherd as well as Grammy-winning vocalist Aubrey Johnson, and can be heard on streaming platforms. Grondin is an active educator, Resident Artist in Jazz Guitar at the University of New Hampshire and an Associate Professor of Ear Training at Berklee College of Music in Boston. His teaching methods focus on building musicianship and applying it to real-world applications such as improvisation, songwriting and internalizing repertoire, and developing creativity through shared musical experiences. Influenced by jazz guitarists such as Wes Montgomery, Kenny Burrell, Jim Hall, Pat Metheny, Emily Remler, John Scofield and Bill Frisell—with his guitar, Grondin illuminates classic jazz standards and jazz-takes on popular and rock songs as well. Grondin completed a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Jazz Performance from the New England Conservatory in Boston (NEC), where he also received his Master of Music in Jazz Composition.
An experienced performer and award-winning composer, guitarist Nick Grondin has presented his music to audiences throughout the U.S. and Europe, including France, Italy, Germany, and at the Panama Jazz Festival. The Nick Grondin Group which presents his original music as modern musical storytelling—inspired by rock, folk and contemporary jazz styles. Their latest album, A View of Earth, features producer/pianist Jon Cowherd as well as Grammy-winning vocalist Aubrey Johnson, and can be heard on streaming platforms. Grondin is an active educator, Resident Artist in Jazz Guitar at the University of New Hampshire and an Associate Professor of Ear Training at Berklee College of Music in Boston. His teaching methods focus on building musicianship and applying it to real-world applications such as improvisation, songwriting and internalizing repertoire, and developing creativity through shared musical experiences. Influenced by jazz guitarists such as Wes Montgomery, Kenny Burrell, Jim Hall, Pat Metheny, Emily Remler, John Scofield and Bill Frisell—with his guitar, Grondin illuminates classic jazz standards and jazz-takes on popular and rock songs as well. Grondin completed a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Jazz Performance from the New England Conservatory in Boston (NEC), where he also received his Master of Music in Jazz Composition.
Gregory Groover Jr
New York-born and Boston-bred, emerging saxophonist, composer, and educator Gregory Groover Jr has already left an indelible mark in the jazz world, in a short period. Saxophonist Walter Smith III describes him as “a thematic musician, whose playing very much relates to the song. He plays with a lot of energy, and he leads with that. The heart is the most important thing – the direction and motion of what he plays is where he really feels.” Raised with a devotion to music, Groover’s artistry seamlessly marries genres as he continues to push the boundaries of jazz while honoring its deep legacy. Groover’s dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene. As a bandleader, Groover has released two albums (Negro Spiritual Songbook, Vol 1 & 2) and made his Criss Cross Records debut in April 2024 with his record, Lovabye. In addition to being a bandleader, Groover is a highly sought-after collaborator, having performed at music festivals in the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa. As an educator, Gregory has served as the co-chair of music at his alma mater, the Boston Arts Academy, where he provided instruction in Jazz studies to the next generation of artists and scholars. Gregory currently serves as the Assistant Chair of Ensemble at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music. His dedication to uplifting the next generation of artists underscores his belief in the transformative power of music.
New York-born and Boston-bred, emerging saxophonist, composer, and educator Gregory Groover Jr has already left an indelible mark in the jazz world, in a short period. Saxophonist Walter Smith III describes him as “a thematic musician, whose playing very much relates to the song. He plays with a lot of energy, and he leads with that. The heart is the most important thing – the direction and motion of what he plays is where he really feels.” Raised with a devotion to music, Groover’s artistry seamlessly marries genres as he continues to push the boundaries of jazz while honoring its deep legacy. Groover’s dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene. As a bandleader, Groover has released two albums (Negro Spiritual Songbook, Vol 1 & 2) and made his Criss Cross Records debut in April 2024 with his record, Lovabye. In addition to being a bandleader, Groover is a highly sought-after collaborator, having performed at music festivals in the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa. As an educator, Gregory has served as the co-chair of music at his alma mater, the Boston Arts Academy, where he provided instruction in Jazz studies to the next generation of artists and scholars. Gregory currently serves as the Assistant Chair of Ensemble at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music. His dedication to uplifting the next generation of artists underscores his belief in the transformative power of music.
Jason Palmer
Trumpeter, Composer, Educator Jason Palmer has performed with Roy Haynes, Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Ravi Coltrane, Jeff Ballard, Lee Konitz, Phil Woods, Common, Roy Hargrove, and Lewis Nash. In addition to performing on over forty albums as a sideman, Jason has recorded 17 albums under his own name on labels Ayva, Steeplechase, Newvelle, and most recently with Giant Step Arts. Four of his recordings were reviewed by Downbeat Magazine, all receiving 4 stars or better. Jason has toured in over 40 countries with saxophonists Mark Turner, Greg Osby, Grace Kelly, Allison Miller, and Matana Roberts, and has been a featured guest artist on multiple projects in Portugal, Mexico, Canada, and Russia. In addition to a heavy performing schedule, Jason Palmer offers his passion for improvisedmusic as Assistant Professor of Ensembles and Brass at Berklee College of Music, Jazz Trumpet Professor at the New England Conservatory of Music, and the Ravenscroft visting Jazz Artist at Arizona State University.
Trumpeter, Composer, Educator Jason Palmer has performed with Roy Haynes, Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Ravi Coltrane, Jeff Ballard, Lee Konitz, Phil Woods, Common, Roy Hargrove, and Lewis Nash. In addition to performing on over forty albums as a sideman, Jason has recorded 17 albums under his own name on labels Ayva, Steeplechase, Newvelle, and most recently with Giant Step Arts. Four of his recordings were reviewed by Downbeat Magazine, all receiving 4 stars or better. Jason has toured in over 40 countries with saxophonists Mark Turner, Greg Osby, Grace Kelly, Allison Miller, and Matana Roberts, and has been a featured guest artist on multiple projects in Portugal, Mexico, Canada, and Russia. In addition to a heavy performing schedule, Jason Palmer offers his passion for improvisedmusic as Assistant Professor of Ensembles and Brass at Berklee College of Music, Jazz Trumpet Professor at the New England Conservatory of Music, and the Ravenscroft visting Jazz Artist at Arizona State University.
Taylor O’Donnell
Known for her exploratory use of vocal timbre and texture in her musical stylings, Taylor O’Donnell uses her roots in R&B, folk, jazz, rock, and classical music training to communicate her musical dialogue. Growing up in Colorado and living all over, from Florida to Maine, her performing experience has taken her from playing with her jazz trio on cruise ships and throughout New England to performing with symphony orchestras. Currently, Taylor serves as the Director of Music for the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Exeter (FUUSE). As an educator and conductor, she holds the positions of Associate Professor of Voice at Berklee College of Musicvand teaches voice in her private studio and online. Her expertise involves helping others deepen their capacity to listen, guiding the exploration of one’s voice through somatic awareness, and inspiring her students and choirs to sing with passion and prowess. Highlights of Taylor’s career have been an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show working with producer David Foster, performing at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NYC, working with Grammy award winning producer Rudy Perez, singing background vocals for singer-songwriter Ben Folds, and was the 2020 New Year’s Eve Guest Artist with the Portsmouth Symphony. Currently, Taylor can be seen performing with Vintage Vocal Quartet, and in duo settings with pianists Jed Wilson and Mike Effenberger.
Known for her exploratory use of vocal timbre and texture in her musical stylings, Taylor O’Donnell uses her roots in R&B, folk, jazz, rock, and classical music training to communicate her musical dialogue. Growing up in Colorado and living all over, from Florida to Maine, her performing experience has taken her from playing with her jazz trio on cruise ships and throughout New England to performing with symphony orchestras. Currently, Taylor serves as the Director of Music for the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Exeter (FUUSE). As an educator and conductor, she holds the positions of Associate Professor of Voice at Berklee College of Musicvand teaches voice in her private studio and online. Her expertise involves helping others deepen their capacity to listen, guiding the exploration of one’s voice through somatic awareness, and inspiring her students and choirs to sing with passion and prowess. Highlights of Taylor’s career have been an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show working with producer David Foster, performing at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NYC, working with Grammy award winning producer Rudy Perez, singing background vocals for singer-songwriter Ben Folds, and was the 2020 New Year’s Eve Guest Artist with the Portsmouth Symphony. Currently, Taylor can be seen performing with Vintage Vocal Quartet, and in duo settings with pianists Jed Wilson and Mike Effenberger.
Mark Shilansky
“Inventive, modern mainstream jazz pianist” (Jon Garelick, Boston Globe) Mark Shilansky (Piano) provides melodic improvisation and infectious compositions on his own and to a host of jazz luminaries, as well as to the classroom, as a professor at Berklee College of Music and the University of New Hampshire. Shilansky’s six recordings as a leader include 2007’s “Join the Club,” a mostly Latin Jazz affair featuring David Bowie saxist Donny McCaslin, and 2013’s “Fugue Mill,” the eponymous debut of his Jazz/Bluegrass/Celtic project featuring violin phenom Sara Caswell, and he is featured on over 60 recordings as a keyboardist, vocalist, composer/arranger, or producer, and in performance as band member for such artists as the New York Voices, Luciana Souza, and David Thorne Scott. As an artist he embraces the history of the styles in which he works, while seeking connections between them as a way of expressing a personal musical vision, characterized by lush harmonies, the exploration of the line between composition and improvisation, and an ever-present sense of humor. His works have been recorded by Robin McKelle, Kim Nazarian, and by Jazz All-State and College ensembles around the world.
“Inventive, modern mainstream jazz pianist” (Jon Garelick, Boston Globe) Mark Shilansky (Piano) provides melodic improvisation and infectious compositions on his own and to a host of jazz luminaries, as well as to the classroom, as a professor at Berklee College of Music and the University of New Hampshire. Shilansky’s six recordings as a leader include 2007’s “Join the Club,” a mostly Latin Jazz affair featuring David Bowie saxist Donny McCaslin, and 2013’s “Fugue Mill,” the eponymous debut of his Jazz/Bluegrass/Celtic project featuring violin phenom Sara Caswell, and he is featured on over 60 recordings as a keyboardist, vocalist, composer/arranger, or producer, and in performance as band member for such artists as the New York Voices, Luciana Souza, and David Thorne Scott. As an artist he embraces the history of the styles in which he works, while seeking connections between them as a way of expressing a personal musical vision, characterized by lush harmonies, the exploration of the line between composition and improvisation, and an ever-present sense of humor. His works have been recorded by Robin McKelle, Kim Nazarian, and by Jazz All-State and College ensembles around the world.
Fernando Huergo
Fernando Huergo is a bassist, composer, and educator from Cordoba, Argentina, now based in Boston. He has recorded over 140 albums, including 11 as a leader. Fernando has toured and given clinics in North, Central and South America, Europe and Asia. An active performer on the jazz scene, he currently plays with Guillermo Klein y Los Guachos, MOZIK, Mehmet Sanlikol, Daniel Ian Smith, Pablo Ablanedo, and El Eco, to name a few. Fernando Huergo has performed with his quintet at the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival, and Cordoba International Jazz Festival in Argentina, as well as at Alexanderplatz Jazz Club in Rome, Italy, and Sunside Jazz in Paris, France, The Regattabar in Cambridge, MA and Cornelia Street Cafe in NYC, among others.
Fernando Huergo is a bassist, composer, and educator from Cordoba, Argentina, now based in Boston. He has recorded over 140 albums, including 11 as a leader. Fernando has toured and given clinics in North, Central and South America, Europe and Asia. An active performer on the jazz scene, he currently plays with Guillermo Klein y Los Guachos, MOZIK, Mehmet Sanlikol, Daniel Ian Smith, Pablo Ablanedo, and El Eco, to name a few. Fernando Huergo has performed with his quintet at the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival, and Cordoba International Jazz Festival in Argentina, as well as at Alexanderplatz Jazz Club in Rome, Italy, and Sunside Jazz in Paris, France, The Regattabar in Cambridge, MA and Cornelia Street Cafe in NYC, among others.
Lee Fish
Acclaimed Boston-born drummer and composer Lee Fish has been part of the thriving Brooklyn music scene since 2018. A fixture at Wally’s Cafe during his student tenure at Berklee — playing with such distinctive leaders as Jason Palmer, Esperanza Spalding, Nadia Washington, and Evgeny Lebedev — Lee became a highly sought collaborator in Boston, who’s now flexing his breadth as a leader in New York City. Having earned his master’s degree on full scholarship at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, Lee received his earliest musical education on the road. Long before he studied under Danilo Pérez, Terri Lyne Carrington and Joe Lovano, at age 3, he would perform with his parents’ band Amante at venues across North America, from Florida to Quebec. Since then, he’s performed all over the world on nearly every continent, appearing on more than 50 recordings, including Mike Tucker’s 2014 release Live! Featuring Warren Wolf, and Jason Palmer’s critically acclaimed 2019 release Sweet Love that received four stars from DownBeat Magazine. “Lee Fish is one of my favorites — inventive, tasteful, and exciting — a creative force to watch for on the instrument”— Terri Lyne Carrington
Acclaimed Boston-born drummer and composer Lee Fish has been part of the thriving Brooklyn music scene since 2018. A fixture at Wally’s Cafe during his student tenure at Berklee — playing with such distinctive leaders as Jason Palmer, Esperanza Spalding, Nadia Washington, and Evgeny Lebedev — Lee became a highly sought collaborator in Boston, who’s now flexing his breadth as a leader in New York City. Having earned his master’s degree on full scholarship at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, Lee received his earliest musical education on the road. Long before he studied under Danilo Pérez, Terri Lyne Carrington and Joe Lovano, at age 3, he would perform with his parents’ band Amante at venues across North America, from Florida to Quebec. Since then, he’s performed all over the world on nearly every continent, appearing on more than 50 recordings, including Mike Tucker’s 2014 release Live! Featuring Warren Wolf, and Jason Palmer’s critically acclaimed 2019 release Sweet Love that received four stars from DownBeat Magazine. “Lee Fish is one of my favorites — inventive, tasteful, and exciting — a creative force to watch for on the instrument”— Terri Lyne Carrington
3:20 – 3:50 Salsa Secrets
Salsa Secrets was born out of Piotrek Kowalczyk‘s love of music and self healing that he experienced through dance. Since 2010, Piotrek has been sharing The Healing Power of Dance in the Portsmouth NH, Newburyport MA and Boston MA communities. Salsa Secrets has been dedicated to being part of the dance community in a positive way, making dance accessible to everyone who desires to experience it. Each year, Salsa Secrets volunteers time, workshops and classes to various organizations and causes in order to give back to the communities that have been so welcoming to us. In 2015, Piotrek and Krystal Couture met and began their journey as partners in life and in dance. Piotrek and Krystal are happy to share the creation of their love and passions with the salsa family. We are honored to dance with you and see your growth in dance and in spirit.
Salsa Secrets was born out of Piotrek Kowalczyk‘s love of music and self healing that he experienced through dance. Since 2010, Piotrek has been sharing The Healing Power of Dance in the Portsmouth NH, Newburyport MA and Boston MA communities. Salsa Secrets has been dedicated to being part of the dance community in a positive way, making dance accessible to everyone who desires to experience it. Each year, Salsa Secrets volunteers time, workshops and classes to various organizations and causes in order to give back to the communities that have been so welcoming to us. In 2015, Piotrek and Krystal Couture met and began their journey as partners in life and in dance. Piotrek and Krystal are happy to share the creation of their love and passions with the salsa family. We are honored to dance with you and see your growth in dance and in spirit.
3:50-4:40 Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing
Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing is a vibrant Latin music ensemble known for bringing energy, rhythm, and passion to every performance. Blending Cuban music with Puerto Rican salsa, the group celebrates the rich traditions of Caribbean music through dynamic live shows filled with dance, culture, and soul. Inspired by legendary artists such as Celia Cruz, La India, and many more. The band delivers powerful vocals, infectious rhythms, and timeless melodies that connect with audiences of all backgrounds. Led by Kristalis, the group is recognized for its charismatic stage presence and joyful celebration of Latin music and heritage.
Kristalis Sotomayor Matos – flute, vocals
Rebecca Cline – piano
Iris Gomez – bass
Barbara Zamora – vocals
Magaly Nuñez – vocals
Camila Porto – tenor sax
Judity Soberanes – congas
Pedro Sanjur – timbales
Juan Sebastián Ramírez – bongo & campana
Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing is a vibrant Latin music ensemble known for bringing energy, rhythm, and passion to every performance. Blending Cuban music with Puerto Rican salsa, the group celebrates the rich traditions of Caribbean music through dynamic live shows filled with dance, culture, and soul. Inspired by legendary artists such as Celia Cruz, La India, and many more. The band delivers powerful vocals, infectious rhythms, and timeless melodies that connect with audiences of all backgrounds. Led by Kristalis, the group is recognized for its charismatic stage presence and joyful celebration of Latin music and heritage.
Kristalis Sotomayor Matos – flute, vocals
Rebecca Cline – piano
Iris Gomez – bass
Barbara Zamora – vocals
Magaly Nuñez – vocals
Camila Porto – tenor sax
Judity Soberanes – congas
Pedro Sanjur – timbales
Juan Sebastián Ramírez – bongo & campana
5:00-6:00 Seacoast Big Band
The Seacoast Big Band has entertained audiences in New England for more than 40 years. Based in Durham, NH, the band features outstanding performers and educators from up and down the I-95 corridor and regularly performs with internationally recognized guest artists, including at previous Seacoast Jazz Festivals with artists such as Ed Shaughnessy, Clark Terry, Carmen Bradford, Sharon Jones, and Alexa Tarantio. Dr. Nathan Jorgensen is the musical director of the longstanding organization and was preceded in that role by Dave Seiler.
The Seacoast Big Band has entertained audiences in New England for more than 40 years. Based in Durham, NH, the band features outstanding performers and educators from up and down the I-95 corridor and regularly performs with internationally recognized guest artists, including at previous Seacoast Jazz Festivals with artists such as Ed Shaughnessy, Clark Terry, Carmen Bradford, Sharon Jones, and Alexa Tarantio. Dr. Nathan Jorgensen is the musical director of the longstanding organization and was preceded in that role by Dave Seiler.
The Press Room Events
Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 pm
Ed Saindon Quartet
Ed Saindon, vibraphone
Ed Saindon is one of the country’s leading vibraphonists, having performed throughout the world. His (four mallet) “pianistic” style was influenced by artists from Fats Waller to Art Tatum to present. Trained at Berklee College of Music by seven-time Grammy winner, Gary Burton, Saindon has performed worldwide and played and/or recorded with Fred Hersch, Dave McKenna, Louie Bellson, Dave Liebman, Herb Pomeroy, Ken Peplowski, Kenny Werner, and many others. Since 1976, he also has been teaching vibes at Berklee College of Music. His CDs include “Swing on the Sunnyside” featuring trumpeter Herb Pomeroy and clarinetist Dick Johnson, "The Great American Songbook" featuring clarinetist Ken Peplowski, trumpeter Warren Vache and trombonist Dan Barrett, "Key Play" featuring pianist Kenny Werner, and "Depth of Emotion" featuring soprano saxist Dave Liebman. He is author of several articles in DownBeat, Percussive Notes, and other publications and has written several books, including the four-volume series, "The Complete Guide to Improvisation and Voicing Concepts for the Jazz Vibist."
Billy Novick, clarinet, sax
Billy Novick has had a whirlwind career in music for more than 50 years as a performer, composer, arranger and studio musician. He has impressed audiences and critics throughout the world with his soulful, lyrical jazz clarinet and sax playing. His long-time collaborations with guitar wizard Guy Van Duser and the internationally acclaimed New Black Eagle Jazz Band have resulted in countless North American and European tours, frequent appearances on the "Prairie Home Companion" radio show, a 30-minute feature interview on NPR’s "All Things Considered," and more than 40 recordings, including 17 under his own name. Mr. Novick’s musical versatility has enabled him to become a highly sought-after studio musician, appearing as a sideman on more than 300 recordings in a wide variety of genres. His compositions have appeared in more than 1,000 film and television soundtracks and his concert works have been performed on four continents. Novick’s jugband adaptation of "Peter and the Wolf" for Dave Van Ronk premiered in New York’s Lincoln Center. Utilizing his experience in performing 1920’s jazz, film scoring and composing for dance, Novick created period musical scores for the Washington Ballet’s original full-length ballets of "The Great Gatsby" and "Hemingway: The Sun Also Rises." Both ballets were premiered at the Kennedy Center to sold-out houses, and the Great Gatsby ballet score has now been performed over 60 times, most recently with the Hong Kong Ballet for ten performances in 2023.
Mark Carlsen, upright bass
Mark Carlson's first instrument was a clarinet, but loving the sound of the bass, he switched to bass guitar in high school, performing with a top 40 band named "Melisma" after high school. During his studies at Berklee College of Music he began to play the double bass under the tutelage of John Repucci, Bruce Gertz, Bill Curtis, and John Lockwood, and master classes by Dave Holland and Richard Davis. In 1981 he was hired to play with the Tommy Dorsey Band, traveling around the U.S., Canada, South America, and Japan, backing many singers and groups including Cab Calloway, Jimmy Witherspoon, Vic Damone, Helen Forrest, Helen O’Connell, Urbie Green, and others. When he returned to Boston he jumped into gigging with various groups including Herb Pomeroy, Ray Santisi, John Laporta, Phil Wilson, George Garzone, Gray Sargent, Alan Dawson, Dick Johnson, Dave McKenna, to mention a few. He also backed numerous instrumentalists and vocalists including Jim Porcella, Carol O’Shaughnessy, Rebecca Paris, Paul Broadnax, Al Grey, Joel Grey, Joe Hunt, Greg Hopkins, Billy Novak, Dave Whitney, Richie Cole, and Ed Saindon, to name a few. In 2004 he joined the Ryles Jazz Orchestra led by Frank Vardaros, working with Bobby Shew, Marvin Stamm, Jerry Bergonzi, Slide Hampton, Jon Faddis, and Arturo Sandoval. More recently he produced a duo CD, called "50/50" with Jon Wheatley, featuring Arnie Krakowsky, Gary Johnson, and Jeff Stout. Mark has also taught privately for many years and owns and runs The Set Up Shop providing bass services, repairs, and restorations.
Steve Langone, drums
For the past 25 years, Steve has been performing in clubs, festivals and recording studios. His versatility has allowed him to work in many different genres of music. Some of the artists Steve has performed and recorded with a number of illustrious musicians including George Garzone, Jerry Bergonzi, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Miguel Zenon, Donny McCaslin, Jason Palmer, The NDR Bigband, Claudio Roditi, Gray Sargent, Bill Pierce, Luis Perdomo, Antonio Sanchez, Herb Pomeroy, John Lockwood, Oscar Stagnaro, Anat Cohen, Claudio Ragazzi, Diego Urcola, Shawn Monteiro, Rebecca Paris, Dominique Eade, Mili Bermejo, Suede, Greg Piccolo (Heavy Juice and Room Full of Blues), Luciana Souza, the Boston Pops, and many, many more. He has also worked with country singer John Carter Cash, comedians Joe Piscopo and Joan Rivers, and has performed throughout world. Steve can also be found on over 50 recordings as a sideman, some include: Nando Michelin, Jinga Trio, Enclave, Gilson Schachnik, Kevin Harris, Shawnn Monteiro, New Stablemates, Mili Bermejo, to name a few. He also has three recordings as a leader "Finders Keepers," "Six," and Steve Langone Group." He has also recorded various soundtracks for National Geographic, Sesame Street and the Miramax film "Next Stop Wonderland." Steve also teaches at the University of Rhode Island, Wellesley College and Berklee College of Music as well as privately. He is the author of "Advanced Rhythmic Concepts for the Modern Drummer Vol. 1, Vol. 2 and Vol. 3."
Ed Saindon is one of the country’s leading vibraphonists, having performed throughout the world. His (four mallet) “pianistic” style was influenced by artists from Fats Waller to Art Tatum to present. Trained at Berklee College of Music by seven-time Grammy winner, Gary Burton, Saindon has performed worldwide and played and/or recorded with Fred Hersch, Dave McKenna, Louie Bellson, Dave Liebman, Herb Pomeroy, Ken Peplowski, Kenny Werner, and many others. Since 1976, he also has been teaching vibes at Berklee College of Music. His CDs include “Swing on the Sunnyside” featuring trumpeter Herb Pomeroy and clarinetist Dick Johnson, "The Great American Songbook" featuring clarinetist Ken Peplowski, trumpeter Warren Vache and trombonist Dan Barrett, "Key Play" featuring pianist Kenny Werner, and "Depth of Emotion" featuring soprano saxist Dave Liebman. He is author of several articles in DownBeat, Percussive Notes, and other publications and has written several books, including the four-volume series, "The Complete Guide to Improvisation and Voicing Concepts for the Jazz Vibist."
Billy Novick, clarinet, sax
Billy Novick has had a whirlwind career in music for more than 50 years as a performer, composer, arranger and studio musician. He has impressed audiences and critics throughout the world with his soulful, lyrical jazz clarinet and sax playing. His long-time collaborations with guitar wizard Guy Van Duser and the internationally acclaimed New Black Eagle Jazz Band have resulted in countless North American and European tours, frequent appearances on the "Prairie Home Companion" radio show, a 30-minute feature interview on NPR’s "All Things Considered," and more than 40 recordings, including 17 under his own name. Mr. Novick’s musical versatility has enabled him to become a highly sought-after studio musician, appearing as a sideman on more than 300 recordings in a wide variety of genres. His compositions have appeared in more than 1,000 film and television soundtracks and his concert works have been performed on four continents. Novick’s jugband adaptation of "Peter and the Wolf" for Dave Van Ronk premiered in New York’s Lincoln Center. Utilizing his experience in performing 1920’s jazz, film scoring and composing for dance, Novick created period musical scores for the Washington Ballet’s original full-length ballets of "The Great Gatsby" and "Hemingway: The Sun Also Rises." Both ballets were premiered at the Kennedy Center to sold-out houses, and the Great Gatsby ballet score has now been performed over 60 times, most recently with the Hong Kong Ballet for ten performances in 2023.
Mark Carlsen, upright bass
Mark Carlson's first instrument was a clarinet, but loving the sound of the bass, he switched to bass guitar in high school, performing with a top 40 band named "Melisma" after high school. During his studies at Berklee College of Music he began to play the double bass under the tutelage of John Repucci, Bruce Gertz, Bill Curtis, and John Lockwood, and master classes by Dave Holland and Richard Davis. In 1981 he was hired to play with the Tommy Dorsey Band, traveling around the U.S., Canada, South America, and Japan, backing many singers and groups including Cab Calloway, Jimmy Witherspoon, Vic Damone, Helen Forrest, Helen O’Connell, Urbie Green, and others. When he returned to Boston he jumped into gigging with various groups including Herb Pomeroy, Ray Santisi, John Laporta, Phil Wilson, George Garzone, Gray Sargent, Alan Dawson, Dick Johnson, Dave McKenna, to mention a few. He also backed numerous instrumentalists and vocalists including Jim Porcella, Carol O’Shaughnessy, Rebecca Paris, Paul Broadnax, Al Grey, Joel Grey, Joe Hunt, Greg Hopkins, Billy Novak, Dave Whitney, Richie Cole, and Ed Saindon, to name a few. In 2004 he joined the Ryles Jazz Orchestra led by Frank Vardaros, working with Bobby Shew, Marvin Stamm, Jerry Bergonzi, Slide Hampton, Jon Faddis, and Arturo Sandoval. More recently he produced a duo CD, called "50/50" with Jon Wheatley, featuring Arnie Krakowsky, Gary Johnson, and Jeff Stout. Mark has also taught privately for many years and owns and runs The Set Up Shop providing bass services, repairs, and restorations.
Steve Langone, drums
For the past 25 years, Steve has been performing in clubs, festivals and recording studios. His versatility has allowed him to work in many different genres of music. Some of the artists Steve has performed and recorded with a number of illustrious musicians including George Garzone, Jerry Bergonzi, Greg Osby, Rufus Reid, Miguel Zenon, Donny McCaslin, Jason Palmer, The NDR Bigband, Claudio Roditi, Gray Sargent, Bill Pierce, Luis Perdomo, Antonio Sanchez, Herb Pomeroy, John Lockwood, Oscar Stagnaro, Anat Cohen, Claudio Ragazzi, Diego Urcola, Shawn Monteiro, Rebecca Paris, Dominique Eade, Mili Bermejo, Suede, Greg Piccolo (Heavy Juice and Room Full of Blues), Luciana Souza, the Boston Pops, and many, many more. He has also worked with country singer John Carter Cash, comedians Joe Piscopo and Joan Rivers, and has performed throughout world. Steve can also be found on over 50 recordings as a sideman, some include: Nando Michelin, Jinga Trio, Enclave, Gilson Schachnik, Kevin Harris, Shawnn Monteiro, New Stablemates, Mili Bermejo, to name a few. He also has three recordings as a leader "Finders Keepers," "Six," and Steve Langone Group." He has also recorded various soundtracks for National Geographic, Sesame Street and the Miramax film "Next Stop Wonderland." Steve also teaches at the University of Rhode Island, Wellesley College and Berklee College of Music as well as privately. He is the author of "Advanced Rhythmic Concepts for the Modern Drummer Vol. 1, Vol. 2 and Vol. 3."
Sunday, Aug. 23, 11 am
Artie Bakopolus Quintet
Artie Bakopolus, sax
Artie Bakopolus is an in-demand sax player for all types of music but especially sought after for jazz. Known as a "hot alto sax player," he favors the styles of Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley and the like, while adding his own personal touch to his solos. He is a long-time veteran of the "Big Bands." He has toured with or performed locally with such groups as the Artie Shaw Band, the Benny Goodman Tribute Band, the Jimmy Dorsey Band, the Guy Lombardo Band, Johnny Mathis, the Shirelles, Bobby Rydell, Barnum and Bailey’s circus in the Boston Garden, Liza Minelli, and many others. These days he can be seen and heard playing with renowned jazz groups of all sizes all around Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Jon Wheatley, guitar
Jon Wheatley is a favorite guitar player of Artie's, having met while they both were playing with the Artie Shaw Band in the 1990s. As the leader of "Jon Wheatley and His Famous Associates," he recorded "Guitar on the Loose in London." He also has notable recordings and/or performances with his 50/50 Quintet and with Ruby Braff, George Masso, Daryl Sherman, Gordon Brisker, the Dick Johnson Orchestra, Donna Byrne, Herb Pomeroy, Billy Novick, Dave Whitney, Jim Porcella, and Debbie Larkin, and. more. He has also performed at jazz festivals un the U.S. and U.K
Russell Hoffman, piano
Russell Hoffmann is a pianist, recording artist, composer, and arranger in many styles of contemporary music, including jazz, Latin, and pop. He has served as musical director for Concord recording artist Marlena Shaw and the University of Minnesota's "Twelve Moods for Jazz" Langston Hughes project. He has performed with jazz luminaries such as Jack McDuff, James Moody, Billy Hart, Donald Harrison, Bobby McFerrin, Peter Leitch, and many of Boston's finest jazz artists. Russ is also assistant professor of piano at Berklee College of Music.
Bruce Gertz, bass
Bruce Gertz is a highly respected jazz bassist, composer, bandleader, author, and educator whose career spans more than five decades. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Gertz is known for his mastery of both upright and electric bass and has been a cornerstone of the Boston jazz community and beyond. He has recorded over 20 albums as a leader and performed and recorded with jazz greats including Jerry Bergonzi, Gary Burton, John Abercrombie, Joey Calderazzo, Bill Frisell, Joe Lovano, and many others. In addition to his performance work, Bruce is an accomplished composer and author of multiple instructional books for bass, and he has received numerous awards including multiple Boston Music Awards and a National Endowment for the Arts jazz performance grant. A longtime Professor of Bass at Berklee College of Music since 1976, Gertz has shaped generations of bassists while maintaining an active performing and recording career.
Jerzy Glod, drums
Jerzy (Jurek) Glod, born in Poland, began playing guitar (his first instrument) when he was 10 years old. Four years later, he switched to playing drums and just a year later, at the age of 15 Jurek started playing professionally at local clubs and events in Poland. In the next few years he formed a jazz trio with Jacek and Wojtek Niedziela. Together, they won numerous awards and competitions including the 1st Prize in the prestigious European Jazz Competition in Leverkusen Germany, where they received the European Young Jazz Artist of 1985 title. As a trio, they formed a rhythm section behind legendary Jan Ptaszyn Wroblewski performing around Poland and making several recordings and many radio and TV appearances.
Artie Bakopolus is an in-demand sax player for all types of music but especially sought after for jazz. Known as a "hot alto sax player," he favors the styles of Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley and the like, while adding his own personal touch to his solos. He is a long-time veteran of the "Big Bands." He has toured with or performed locally with such groups as the Artie Shaw Band, the Benny Goodman Tribute Band, the Jimmy Dorsey Band, the Guy Lombardo Band, Johnny Mathis, the Shirelles, Bobby Rydell, Barnum and Bailey’s circus in the Boston Garden, Liza Minelli, and many others. These days he can be seen and heard playing with renowned jazz groups of all sizes all around Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
Jon Wheatley, guitar
Jon Wheatley is a favorite guitar player of Artie's, having met while they both were playing with the Artie Shaw Band in the 1990s. As the leader of "Jon Wheatley and His Famous Associates," he recorded "Guitar on the Loose in London." He also has notable recordings and/or performances with his 50/50 Quintet and with Ruby Braff, George Masso, Daryl Sherman, Gordon Brisker, the Dick Johnson Orchestra, Donna Byrne, Herb Pomeroy, Billy Novick, Dave Whitney, Jim Porcella, and Debbie Larkin, and. more. He has also performed at jazz festivals un the U.S. and U.K
Russell Hoffman, piano
Russell Hoffmann is a pianist, recording artist, composer, and arranger in many styles of contemporary music, including jazz, Latin, and pop. He has served as musical director for Concord recording artist Marlena Shaw and the University of Minnesota's "Twelve Moods for Jazz" Langston Hughes project. He has performed with jazz luminaries such as Jack McDuff, James Moody, Billy Hart, Donald Harrison, Bobby McFerrin, Peter Leitch, and many of Boston's finest jazz artists. Russ is also assistant professor of piano at Berklee College of Music.
Bruce Gertz, bass
Bruce Gertz is a highly respected jazz bassist, composer, bandleader, author, and educator whose career spans more than five decades. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Gertz is known for his mastery of both upright and electric bass and has been a cornerstone of the Boston jazz community and beyond. He has recorded over 20 albums as a leader and performed and recorded with jazz greats including Jerry Bergonzi, Gary Burton, John Abercrombie, Joey Calderazzo, Bill Frisell, Joe Lovano, and many others. In addition to his performance work, Bruce is an accomplished composer and author of multiple instructional books for bass, and he has received numerous awards including multiple Boston Music Awards and a National Endowment for the Arts jazz performance grant. A longtime Professor of Bass at Berklee College of Music since 1976, Gertz has shaped generations of bassists while maintaining an active performing and recording career.
Jerzy Glod, drums
Jerzy (Jurek) Glod, born in Poland, began playing guitar (his first instrument) when he was 10 years old. Four years later, he switched to playing drums and just a year later, at the age of 15 Jurek started playing professionally at local clubs and events in Poland. In the next few years he formed a jazz trio with Jacek and Wojtek Niedziela. Together, they won numerous awards and competitions including the 1st Prize in the prestigious European Jazz Competition in Leverkusen Germany, where they received the European Young Jazz Artist of 1985 title. As a trio, they formed a rhythm section behind legendary Jan Ptaszyn Wroblewski performing around Poland and making several recordings and many radio and TV appearances.
Sunday, Aug. 23, 6:30 pm
Anick ~ Klaxton ~ Effenberger ~ Connors
Jason Anick, violin
Jason Anick is a Berklee College of Music professor who has earned a reputation among string players as an imaginative improviser, versatile composer, and insightful educator. Growing up playing fiddle tunes with his family and classical music with local orchestras, he developed a passion for improvisation, which led him to study jazz and classical music at Hartt Conservatory. In 2008, Anick started what would be a 10-year stint touring and recording with Grammy award-winning guitar virtuoso John Jorgenson while still a senior at Hartt Conservatory. As a band leader, Anick has launched a variety of musical projects over the years, including the Gypsy Jazz group, Rhythm Future Quartet, an Americana-inspired Acoustic Trio, and a contemporary jazz ensemble with pianist Jason Yeager. His string of recordings ("Sleepless," "Tipping Point," "United," "Travels," "Rhythm Future Quartet and Friends") has earned him praise from DownBeat Magazine as a “Rising Star in the world of jazz violin.”
Chris Klaxton, trumpet
Trumpeter Chris Klaxton is a lifelong student of the jazz tradition and performs locally / regionally with a variety of self/co-led ensembles ranging from small group interpretations of American standards to his contemporary large ensemble, "Ourbigband." Klaxton has also been fortunate to participate in the Boston hip hop scene for well over a decade. In addition to performing, he also teaches trumpet at UNH, USM, PMAC, and Longy School of Music in Cambridge. Klaxton resides in South Berwick, Maine, with his talented wife Taylor O’Donnell and their two daughters.
Mike Effenberger, Hammond B3 Organ
Mike Effenberger is a composer, arranger, pianist, organist, keyboardist, and multi-talented recording and performing artist. He has been living in the New Hampshire Seacoast since 2007. He received the "Young Beacon in Jazz" award from New School University in New York City, from which he graduated in 2005. While there, he studied with diverse artists including Jane Ira Bloom, Kenny Werner, John Hollenbeck, Reggie Workman, Fred Hersch, and Joanne Brackeen. Mike has curated an unmistakably individual voice that draws on gospel, minimalism, jazz, and 20th century music. His work has been written about in international publications including the Paris Review, The Guardian, Pitchfork, and DownBeat, as well as appearing on nationally syndicated media including NPR's "All Things Considered "and PRX's "Echoes."
Mike Connors, drums
As a freelance musician, Mike Connors is one of the most sought-after drummers in New England, playing in groups as varied as jazz, folk, rock, and world ensembles. Mike has toured internationally with the avant-pop group "Combustible Edison", Bryan Ferry, The Lillith Fair with Brenda Kahn, and many others.
Jason Anick is a Berklee College of Music professor who has earned a reputation among string players as an imaginative improviser, versatile composer, and insightful educator. Growing up playing fiddle tunes with his family and classical music with local orchestras, he developed a passion for improvisation, which led him to study jazz and classical music at Hartt Conservatory. In 2008, Anick started what would be a 10-year stint touring and recording with Grammy award-winning guitar virtuoso John Jorgenson while still a senior at Hartt Conservatory. As a band leader, Anick has launched a variety of musical projects over the years, including the Gypsy Jazz group, Rhythm Future Quartet, an Americana-inspired Acoustic Trio, and a contemporary jazz ensemble with pianist Jason Yeager. His string of recordings ("Sleepless," "Tipping Point," "United," "Travels," "Rhythm Future Quartet and Friends") has earned him praise from DownBeat Magazine as a “Rising Star in the world of jazz violin.”
Chris Klaxton, trumpet
Trumpeter Chris Klaxton is a lifelong student of the jazz tradition and performs locally / regionally with a variety of self/co-led ensembles ranging from small group interpretations of American standards to his contemporary large ensemble, "Ourbigband." Klaxton has also been fortunate to participate in the Boston hip hop scene for well over a decade. In addition to performing, he also teaches trumpet at UNH, USM, PMAC, and Longy School of Music in Cambridge. Klaxton resides in South Berwick, Maine, with his talented wife Taylor O’Donnell and their two daughters.
Mike Effenberger, Hammond B3 Organ
Mike Effenberger is a composer, arranger, pianist, organist, keyboardist, and multi-talented recording and performing artist. He has been living in the New Hampshire Seacoast since 2007. He received the "Young Beacon in Jazz" award from New School University in New York City, from which he graduated in 2005. While there, he studied with diverse artists including Jane Ira Bloom, Kenny Werner, John Hollenbeck, Reggie Workman, Fred Hersch, and Joanne Brackeen. Mike has curated an unmistakably individual voice that draws on gospel, minimalism, jazz, and 20th century music. His work has been written about in international publications including the Paris Review, The Guardian, Pitchfork, and DownBeat, as well as appearing on nationally syndicated media including NPR's "All Things Considered "and PRX's "Echoes."
Mike Connors, drums
As a freelance musician, Mike Connors is one of the most sought-after drummers in New England, playing in groups as varied as jazz, folk, rock, and world ensembles. Mike has toured internationally with the avant-pop group "Combustible Edison", Bryan Ferry, The Lillith Fair with Brenda Kahn, and many others.