The Scene in Pittsburgh for July has more than 180 jazz engagements as seen on Jazz Central.
Allan Harris
Just over two years ago, the jazz scene in Pittsburgh crossed the mark of 200 events a month. It was a jazz renaissance that many hoped for but no one could predict or guarantee. The Confluence of music education - for performers AND audiences, scores of venues willing to share the stage, hundreds (yes HUNDREDS) of capable musicians, a common musical language - and, yes, a jazz radio station, day and night, encouraging and supporting the sounds, people and ideas.
And then, a pandemic.
Jazz found a way in Pittsburgh to persevere. Now, in July 2021, more than 180 jazz events scheduled for the month.
One the artists we highlighted in March of 2019 when jazz started to boom was adopted Pittsburgher Allan Harris - vocalist, guitarist and jazz ambassador. July 2021, he’s back for the Inside / Outside series at the Pittsburgh Playhouse - and also joined by vocalist Nicole Henry.
In addition, an addition to the jazz talent on the scene comes from the Pittsburgh Symphony - the relatively new Principal Conductor for the PSO Pops is acclaimed trumpeter and recording artist Byron Stripling - performing at Hartwood Acres, Friday July 23 with the Pops - and also with noted bassist, vocalist and recording artist in her own right, Nicki Parrott.
And jazz brunches are coming back! Including Thomas Wendt’s Trio at Scratch Food and Beverage in Troy Hill with Tony DePaolis and Mark Strickland.
Also - a homecoming Weekend for bassist Richie Goods - he’ll be back in Pittsburgh at Hartwood Acres Sunday night at 7:30 for a show with vocalist Lisa Fischer, notable in her featured role in the documentary “20 Feet From Stardom.”
Meanwhile - Con Alma, Downtown has announced that Friday and Saturday music will go to midnight - and appears to be adding a second band for the earlier sets that start at 6 on those nights.
There’s more at Jazz Central!
Hear the Scene - Thursdays at 6pm, Sundays at 5pm, Friday and Saturdays at noon on WZUM.
