In 1994 in his hometown of Portland, Oregon, Thomas Lauderdale was working in local politics, attending every political fundraiser under the sun… but was dismayed to find the music at these events underwhelming and lackluster. Drawing inspiration from music from all over the world – crossing genres of classical, jazz and old-fashioned pop – and […]

Every year incredible jazz musicians perform on the Fox stage, especially as part of the Tucson Jazz Festival. It’s hard to overstate the massive impact that this truly American art form has has had on the world, yet it can also be challenging to “find a way into it.” In response, this Curious Conversation will […]

NEA Jazz Masters and recipient of the Ordre de Chevalier des Arts et Lettres, Charles Lloyd, continues to elevate the art form with each performance and recording. Born in Memphis, Tennessee March 15, 1938. From an early age, Lloyd was immersed in that city’s rich musical life and was exposed to jazz. He began playing […]

Swedish musical sensation Gunhild Carling is an internationally acclaimed superstar whose show is a can’t-miss event! Whether she’s singing favorite swinging jazz standards, playing one of many 11 instruments (trumpet, trombone, harmonica, oboe, harp, flute, recorder, or jazz bagpipe!) or juggling and tap dancing, Gunhild’s sublime showmanship shines. And just wait for the finale – […]

One of life’s constants for Sheila E. comes down to a simple phrase: follow the beat. And her impeccable inner rhythm is the pulse behind a trailblazing career that still knows no bounds. Family, faith and music were guiding forces for Sheila E. growing up in the Bay Area. In addition to percussionist dad Pete, […]

One of life’s constants for Sheila E. comes down to a simple phrase: follow the beat. And her impeccable inner rhythm is the pulse behind a trailblazing career that still knows no bounds. Family, faith and music were guiding forces for Sheila E. growing up in the Bay Area. In addition to percussionist dad Pete, […]

Immerse students in the electrifying world of jazz! Both captivating and informative, the show’s combination of a live jazz quintet, spoken word, and video projection takes students on a journey through jazz’s rich history, where they’ll meet the legendary masters who shaped its sound. Yet “Stolen Moments” goes beyond the music. It reveals the fascinating […]

“I want to take people to places they haven’t been.” Jesse Cook, Juno winning master guitarist, known for his intoxicating fusion of world music, has travelled the globe looking for sounds that resonate with him. “I like finding common ground for different music traditions, a space where music from around the world can come together,” […]

Bobby Rush is a three-time GRAMMY winner, Blues Hall of Famer, and 16-time Blues Music Awards winner. During his renowned stage show, he frequently jumps high into the air, arms spread, only to land gracefully and return without a hitch to his dazzling routine. It’s a move you might expect at a contemporary R&B show, […]