In the last days of December, it is tradition to look back at the past year’s events and do a tally and recounting of sorts. For WZUM and Jazz lovers in Pittsburgh, it was, on the whole, a year filled with notable appearances, performances and also passings.
First, we must remember the passing of the remarkable pianist, composer and jazz icon, Ahmad Jamal in April at the age of 92.
Live jazz, in person in Pittsburgh, was abundant - but there were changes and additions on the Jazz Central Calendar as a part of the listings. Con Alma, Shadyside, the restaurant that was so important to the most recent jazz resurgence, closed over the summer, while the newer, larger downtown location went to music 7 nights a week.
The Original Pittsburgh Winery and City Winery Pittsburgh kept up a schedule that introduced quite a bit of jazz in the mix. Other active places include Kingfly Spirits, Golden Age Beer and about 20 more.
MCG Jazz, Kente Arts and the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust were among the busy presenters, including performances by Lakecia Benjamin - Steve Turre - Nduduzo Makhathini - Carmen Lundy -
Grammy Winner Terri Lynn Carrington - Pittsburgh Playhouse
Con Alma Shadyside Closes - John Shannon Organ Trio with Cliff Barnes and James Johnson III - who also toured Europe and recorded in France.
The Greer Cabaret Renovation was completed and the new, larger space has played host to the fall season of BNY Mellon JazzLive.
MCG Jazz seasons 36 and 37 - including a long awaited visit by Monika Herzig for her Joni Mitchell project, plus Sean Jones with Brinae Ali, Eliane Elias, Samara Joy and Arturo Sandoval.
Aaron Diehl played for Chamber music Pittsburgh - and also visited us about Mary Lou Williams’ Zodiac Suite.
Howie Alexander opened the mainstage for the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival - and on December 29, he closes the year on worldwide video for OH! at Con Alma.
PIJF was filled with talent - Chelsea Baratz comes home, Gregory Porter, Kurt Elling, Jose James, visit, too. Orrin Evans on a train with Caleb Wheeler Curtis and Michelle Lordi; Bob James, Nicholas Payton, Christie Dashiell and much more.
And also - the year of the launch of the musical play Billy Strayhorn: Something to Live For with breakout performances that included Tony-winner Darius de Haas and musical director/keyboard artist Matthew Whitaker.
What a year! We are counting up to 2024 to see what’s next!
The Scene - Thursday at 6 - Friday and Saturday at noon - Sunday at 5 on WZUM
Matthew Whitaker and Darius de Haas - photo by Michael Henninger 2023