WALLACE RONEY JR. QUARTET
Growing up surrounded by the sounds of jazz and melodies that filled every corner of his home, Roney Jr. found his passion for the trumpet at an early age. Inspired by legendary players like Kenny Dorham, Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, and Lee Morgan, he quickly developed an intense love for the craft. At just 10 years old, his dedication to learning harmony and his eagerness to play led his father to gift him his very first trumpet—a moment that would set the stage for his musical journey.
Since then, Wallace Roney Jr. has graced stages alongside jazz luminaries such as Chick Corea, Jimmy Heath, Lenny White, Buster Williams, and the late Ornette Coleman. A proud graduate of the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory of Music, he continues to captivate audiences at venues across the U.S. and around the globe. Today, Roney Jr. is one of the most sought-after trumpeters in the New York jazz scene, known for his dynamic performances and deep understanding of the genre.
Music runs deep in Roney Jr.’s veins. As the son of renowned trumpeter Wallace Roney Sr. and the universally celebrated pianist Geri Allen, his artistry is both a reflection of his family’s rich musical legacy and a testament to his own extraordinary talent.
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ALBA PUJALS
Since coming together in 2019, this talented quintet has been crafting original music that bridges the roots of jazz with fresh, contemporary ideas. Led by Alba Pujals on trombone and vocals, the group includes Jarien Jamanila on alto saxophone, Esteban Castro on piano, Jayla Chee on bass, and Sarah Gooch on drums. Their performance highlights a shared love for jazz tradition while exploring new sounds and heartfelt compositions, making for an evening of honest and inspired music.
Performers:
Alba Pujals, trombone, voice and compositions
Jarien Jamanila, alto saxophone
Esteban Castro, piano
Jayla Chee, bass
Sarah Gooch, drums
Tickets: $20.00 ~ $50.00
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DIVA JAZZ ORCHESTRA
Led by renowned drummer and composer Sherrie Maricle, the DIVA Jazz Orchestra is a powerhouse 15-piece ensemble celebrated for blending classic big band traditions with fresh, original flair. Joined by Grammy-nominated vocalist Clint Holmes, they’ll take you on a vibrant musical journey through jazz standards, Broadway hits, movie masterpieces, and more, showcasing their unique renditions and dynamic energy. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of music over three swinging nights.
The Players: Sherrie Maricle, music director/drums | Kellin Hanas, trumpet | Summer Camargo, trumpet | Jami Dauber, trumpet | Barbara Laronga, trumpet | Leslie Havens, bass trombone | Sara Jacovino, trombone | Jen Krupa, trombone | Stephanie Tateiwa, alto saxophone | Erena Terakubo, alto saxophone | Jade Elliott, tenor saxophone | Laura Dreyer, tenor saxophone | Leigh Pilzer/Lauren Sevian, baritone saxophone | Tomoko Ohno, piano | Noriko Ueda, bass
Tickets: $20.00 ~ 60.00
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AKIKO TSURUGA
Akiko Tsuruga is a jazz composer, Hammond B-3 organist and pianist from Osaka, Japan. She was born in Osaka. Her parents bought her a small organ when she was three and she started learning to play standards.
After landing in the mecca for jazz, New York City, it didn’t take long for Akiko to make her mark – It was during these early years that she had the great pleasure of sitting in, playing gigs, and eventually recording with jazz greats such as Frank Wess, Jimmy Cobb, Grady Tate and other top NY musicians. Her reputation ultimately drew attention of Lou Donaldson as he chose her in 2006 as his quartet’s organist.
But it was the meeting of organ legend Dr. Lonnie Smith that proved to have the greatest impact on Akiko’s musical development and career. He became an important mentor to Akiko, and she considers him her greatest influence. She flourished and continued to be a constant draw on the NY jazz scene.
Performance Lineup:
Akiko Tsuruga, organ
Joe Magnarelli, trumpet
Myron Walden, tenor & baritone?saxophone, flute
Byron Landham, drums
Charlie Sigler, guitar
Tickets: $20.00 ~$50.00
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NNENNA FREELON
Seven-time Grammy Award nominee Nnenna Freelon returns to Dizzy’s to celebrate her new recording, Beneath The Skin (Origin Records). Departing from the American Songbook standards she’s masterfully interpreted throughout her career, Freelon turns inward with a collection of heart-spoken songs that aim to heal life’s personal and universal broken places. She shares, “I’m taking a lesson from my garden—from the flower that trusts itself to be enough.”
Tickets: $25.00 ~ $60.00
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