Sonny Stitt Tribute
Sonny Stitt is a bebop trailblazer whose influence echoes through the annals of jazz history. Born in Roxbury, MA, Stitt played alongside legends such as Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie, and Sonny Rollins. This tribute concert promises to light up the stage with Stitt’s iconic tunes, including the electrifying "The Eternal Triangle."
Don Braden (Tenor Sax, Bandleader)
World-class saxophonist, flutist, composer, and educator, Don Braden has toured with jazz royalty like Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Tony Williams, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Haynes, and Herbie Hancock. Braden is a distinguished educator at Harvard University and the leader of the Litchfield Jazz Camp. With 24 albums to his name, Braden's latest, "Earth Wind and Wonder Volume 2," soared to #1 on the JazzWeek national radio airplay chart.
Sharel Cassity (Alto Sax)
A powerhouse on the alto sax, Sharel Cassity is a vital member of the Dizzy Gillespie Latin Experience and All-Star Big Band. She has shared the stage with Grammy winners like Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargrove, Nicholas Payton, and more. Her latest album, "Alliance," showcases her bold style and virtuosity.
Abraham Burton (Tenor Sax)
Tenor sax sensation Abraham Burton has captivated audiences with Arthur Taylor's Whalers, all three Mingus ensembles, Jackie McLean, and Kenny Barron. He is a respected educator at the Jackie McLean School of Jazz and Rutgers University. Burton’s latest recording, "Live From Summit Rock In Seneca Village," captures his dynamic live performance energy.
Miki Hayama (Piano)
Miki Hayama has dazzled audiences alongside jazz greats such as Kenny Garrett, Ralph Peterson, Sean Jones, Tia Fuller, Michael Dease, Vincent Herring, Bruce Williams, Roy Hargrove, and Don Braden. Her fourth album as a leader, "Live at Kobe," is a testament to her incredible talent and versatility.
Nat Reeves (Bass)
Bass maestro Nat Reeves has anchored the rhythm section for jazz icons from Sonny Stitt to Jackie McLean, Curtis Fuller, Pharoah Sanders, and Kenny Garrett. When not touring, Reeves educates the next generation of jazz musicians at the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School in Hartford, CT. His album "State of Emergency" showcases his profound musicianship.
Jeremy Warren (Drums)
Jeremy Warren brings a serious groove and swing to the drums. He has laid down beats for artists like GZA of Wu-Tang, Deanna Martin (daughter of Dean Martin), Andy Milne, Lenny Pickett, John Scofield, Tom Scott, NYU Combo Nuvo, and Don Braden. Warren's latest album, "I Can Do All Things," highlights his versatile and dynamic drumming style.