RENE MARIE

Part of René’s musical philosophy has been focused on giving back. In 2010, she launched a series of vocal therapy group sessions called SLAM. “I’ve never been to college or received any ‘professional’ training,” she said at the time, “so I feel a bit anxious about my ability to convey my personal approach to singing. However, I know what I know, and I’ve always been up for a good challenge.” And in a self-deprecating moment, she added: “Although the thought of attempting to share my vocal philosophy often makes me wonder if I have completely lost touch with reality.”

René joined the Motéma label with the 2011 release of Voice of My Beautiful Country, followed later that same year by Black Lace Freudian Slip. Her 2013 followup, I Wanna Be Evil: With Love To Eartha Kitt, earned a Grammy nomination in the Best Jazz Vocals category. Her Sound of Red album has been nominated for a 2016 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album.

Perhaps more than most artists, René understands music’s capacity to heal and inspire. Not only has she herself been the beneficiary of it, but she has made every effort along the way to extend those same benefits to others.

“I have never forgotten the early lessons learned about the power of music,” she says. “Today, I try to imbue that feeling of emotion into every song I write and every song I sing – every time. I am very happy to be alive today, doing the things I love to do – singing, composing, writing, teaching and arranging.

Cover: $29.95 ~ $46.35

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EARL PHILIPS BIG BAND

Tribute to Terry Gibbs & His Dream Band | Steve Weiss Mallet Festival)

Earl Phillips is active as composer/arranger, educator, and bass trombonist in the greater Philadelphia area. As a composer/arranger, Earl directs and writes for the Earl Phillips Big Band and has led his own 17-piece big band since 2007.

As an educator, Earl is the Professor of Jazz Trombone and a member of the Composition / Arranging faculty at Rowan University.  Earl is also the Director of thel Jazz Ensemble, and teaches Music Theory and Music Technology at Cherokee High School.  Earl has also directed the Philadelphia Grammy Band (2005-2007), the All South Jersey Jazz Ensemble (2008 &2012), the All Central Jersey Jazz Ensemble (2014) and he has been a clinician/manager with the New Jersey All State Jazz Ensemble (2009-2014).

In 2020, through the COVID pandemic, Earl ran 2 All-State Jazz Ensembles to keep region jazz running and, for those efforts, was recognized as  the 2020 New Jersey Association of Jazz Education “Teacher of the Year” award.

The Big Band

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The Jazz Voyager

Back in the Midwest to Gateway City this Jazz Voyager goes for another jazz escapade in a new venue, the Harold & Dorothy Steward Center For Jazz. Sitting next to Jazz St. Louis, the 220 seat auditorium is coupled with education programs, six soundproof practice rooms, a resource room featuring computers loaded with music, composition software, and the brand new Nancy’s Jazz Lounge.

On the marquee tonight is vocalist Diana West, stepping into the spotlight with her highly anticipated breakout performance at Jazz St. Louis. The St. Louis native is a dynamic young vocalist in her early 20s, bringing fresh, soulful energy to the stage that is rooted in the tradition but is unafraid to take bold steps forward. I am anticipating seeing this artist who is new to me.

The performance is sold out for this in-demand artist, so if you haven’t gotten your ticket you’ll have to catch her the next time.

Harold & Dorothy Steward Center For Jazz  is located at 3536 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63103 For more information contact the venue at https://my.jazzstl.org.

CALIFORNIA JAZZ FOUNDATION

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BUSTER WILLIAMS

A beloved fixture of the New York jazz scene, bassist and composer Buster Williams brings his rich tone, infectious swing, and joyful spirit to the stage. He’s played alongside greats like Herbie Hancock, Art Blakey, and Betty Carter, and now leads his dynamic group Something More. Get ready for a night of deep grooves, soulful melodies, and the kind of musical chemistry that makes live jazz unforgettable.

Performers: Buster Williams, bass | Steve Wilson, saxophone | Brandon McCune, piano (7/31 and 8/1) | Steve Nelson, vibes (8/2) |  Lenny White, drums

Cover: $25.00 ~ $65.00

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MARQUES CARROLL QUINTET

Trumpeter Marques Carroll, brings his Chicago based quintet to St. Louis for a two night gig, featuring Greg Artry ~ drums, Julius Tucker ~ piano, Christian Dillingham ~ bass, and Marvin Truong ~ alto saxophone. The St. Louis native is an Emmy Award winner, Grammy member, jazz educator, and former member of the legendary Count Basie Orchestra.

Blending fiery original compositions with contemporary classics by Roy Hargrove, Wayne Shorter, and others, the group brings a message-driven sound shaped by social justice, personal heritage, and artistic integrity. From his debut, The Ancestors’ Call, to his follow-up Foundations, Carroll crafts music that honors legacy while pushing toward progress. Together, this ensemble of bandleaders delivers a bold and deeply expressive voice, refined in Chicago, and resonating far beyond.

Cover: Sold Out

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