2023 has been one of the busiest years for new jazz recordings we can recall, and many have a Pittsburgh flair.
There’s also a great list of jazz performances in store, most with at least a hint of tinsel and holly in the next few weeks.
A festive show, holidays or not, comes Saturday night with Lakecia Benjamin at the New Hazlett Theater on December 9th for Kente Arts. The Grammy nominated saxophonist, composer and bandleader will highlight music for her latest release, Phoenix.
Other December highlights include vocalist and award winning composer Ann Hampton Callaway - the special guest for the annual holiday concert by Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra December 21st the Pittsburgh Playhouse at Point Park University, Ann recorded a wonderful album of holiday favorites a while ago, and also has a brand new release of her own compositions, just out (she has written many Christmas songs, too!)
Also on December 21, pianist Orrin Evans has a Holiday Extravaganza coming to the City Winery - reflecting a new holiday release on his Imani record label, we’ll hear tracks from that with Orrin and vocalist Michelle Lordi. The City Winery hit has special guests Paul Jost, Milton Suggs and Pittsburgh’s own Jeff “Tain” Watts.
Other holiday treats on the menu - mostly new things -
vibist and harmonica artist Hendrick Meurkens (recorded in Pittsburgh last year)
Pittsburgh area native - composer and saxophonist Stephen Philip Harvey
Gregory Porter
George Burton
Samara Joy
Christian Sands
and Pittsburgh native, drummer Jae Sinnett with his zero to 60 Quartet - plus Randy Brecker - recorded with public radio station WHRO, Norfolk VA (where Jae is also a very successful on-air jazz host).
Also, the Carnegie in Carnegie has a post-Christmas show with Benny Benack Jr and Benny Benack III on December 27th - which will also be a sendoff for Maggie Forbes, Executive Director - and the last show in the music hall for a while as it undergoes major renovations.
The Scene - Thursday at 6 - Friday and Saturday at noon - Sunday at 5 on WZUM
Ann Hampton Callaway Christmas
Lakecia Benjamin, Phoenix
