2015 Charlottesville Jazz Society Fundraiser

On Sunday February 22nd the jazz stars shine again at The Southern, as Charlottesville’s community of world class jazz musicians perform in support of The Charlottesville Jazz Society’s educational and cultural mission.  For the 3rd year in a row, an amazing line-up of great bands will take the stage in a succession of brief, dazzling sets of hot jazz.  Expect to see new and surprising groupings and combinations of musicians, as it’s rare that so many of these great artists are able to gather in the same venue at the same time.

Beginning at 5:30, saxophonist Michael Elswick’s trio will kick off the festivities with a lively set in the bar area.  Following that, the action moves to the main stage as Jonah Kane-West’s organ trio fills the room with their classic soul-jazz sound, featuring a rare appearance by Lynchburg-based Brian Mesko on guitar.

After that, the jazz parade continues with pianist Art Wheeler’s trio featuring 6-string electric bass wizard Dane Alderson; vibes man Trevor Williams and his quartet; electrifying guitarist Jamal Millner reprising his Jimi Hendrix tribute; Chicago expat Chris Damman and his new band; and elder statesman of bebop, pianist Hod O’Brien with his wife, internationally known vocalist Stephanie Nakasian.  This amazing mini jazz festival will end around 9 pm.

The Charlottesville Jazz Society endeavors to preserve and promote jazz music through live performance and education. For the past nine years the CJS has presented hundreds of events by local, national and international artists.  In conjunction with these concerts, many of the groups have gone into area schools and community centers to attempt to inspire the next generation of jazz musicians.

To learn more about The Charlottesville Jazz Society, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, visit cvillejazz.org