This week on the MCG Jazz Spotlight Show, Hosts Marty Ashby and Renee Govanucci preview the artists and music of the upcoming 38th Season, the "Season of Firsts” with more details on groundbreaking lineup.

The season contains 12 total performances, two of which will involve MCGJazz’s first-ever Artist-In-Residence, Ray Angry. Ray Angry will also contribute to other programming throughout the season and work closely with local young musicians through workshops, masterclasses, and mentorship opportunities.

The MCGJazz Spotlight on WZUM - Friday and Sunday nights at 6, and Saturday afternoon at 1.

Concerts include a special preview show with Herb Alpert and Lani Hall at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, July 19, plus the season highlights:

Artist in Residence Ray Angry with The Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra – October 4th and 5th, 2024

World premier commission by Artist-In-Residence Ray Angry with the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra.

Amina Figarova Sextet and the Matsiko World Orphan Choir – October 18th and 19th, 2024

Pianist/composer Amina Figarova pairs her stellar sextet with a choir of orphaned and at-risk children from Liberia on her masterful new album.

Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin - Brasil – October 26th, 2024

Lee Ritenour has had an impressive career as a guitarist. With over 40 albums, a GRAMMY, and numerous awards. Dave Grusin, active in music since the late 50s, is known as an arranger, pianist, composer, and producer.

Abdullah Ibrahim Trio – November 9th, 2024

Abdullah Ibrahim is South Africa’s most distinguished pianist and a world-respected master musician. Abdullah has over 100 albums and over 300 compositions to his name.

Diva Jazz Orchestra Celebrates Jazz Legends of 1924 –with Special Guest Kim Nazarian November 23rd, 2024

DIVA Jazz Orchestra will be celebrating the work of jazz artists turning 100 in 2024. This performance will have a special guest, Kim Nazarian.

Christian Sands Christmas Stories – December 7th, 2024

CHRISTIAN SANDS, five-time Grammy Nominee, is an emerging jazz force. His abundant piano technique perfectly matches his conception, accomplishing a much deeper musical goal: a fresh look at the entire language of jazz.

"Beyond Stolen Moments” – January 31st and February 1st, 2025

with The Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra Conducted by Oliver Nelson Jr. Oliver Nelson Jr. will be conducting The Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra as they perform the music of Oliver Nelson - including newly discovered works.

An evening with Artist In Residence Ray Angry and Special Guests – February 15th, 2025

Artist-In-Residence Ray Angry, pianist, composer, and producer, will perform with special guests.

WDR Big Band directed by Bob Mintzer – February 28th & March 1st, 2025

The WDR Big Band from Germany directed by Bob Mintzer in this fun, big band show!

Bria Skonberg Quintet– March 15th, 2025

New York based and Canadian born singer, trumpeter, and songwriter Bria Skonberg has been described as one of the “most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation” (Wall Street Journal).

Joshua Redman Group featuring Gabrielle Cavassa– April 5th, 2025

Over the past three decades, the saxophonist, composer, and bandleader has demonstrated how to honor the music’s verities while expanding its reach in contemporary settings.

Jazz Funk Soul - Everette Harp, Jeff Lorber and Paul Jackson Jr. – April 19th, 2025

The leaders of this supergroup are three of the most important Contemporary Jazz artists and producers on the scene.

Artists and dates subject to change. 

More information on artists performing during the MCG Jazz 2024-2025 concert series can be found on the MCG Jazz web site at: https://www.mcgjazz.org/20242025events.