The start of the new year had long been a big time for the gathering of jazz notables in recent decades, but much of that was sidetracked by COVID starting in March of 2020.
But that is making a major turn, now, in 2024.
In New York City, we were able to attend the one-day “Jazz Congress” event, January 11 at Jazz at Lincoln Center, last held in January of 2020.
Also going that week in New York City, APAP - the Association of Performing Arts Professionals including Pittsburghers Allan Harris and Howie Alexander, trombonist Reggie Watkins, plus Pittsburgher-in-law Orrin Evans.
Also on hand with Steel City Connections - vocalist Aimée Allen, Tania Grubbs, community leaders Janis Burley (August Wilson African American Cultural Center and the PIJF) Terri Bell (Pittsburgh Cultural Trust), and Suzanne Rideout (Kente Arts), drummer and radio host Jae Sinnett and pianist Monty Alexander (who has spent a lot of time in Pittsburgh!).
We share a few of the interviews from the week and some music, too: Orrin Evans, Aimée Allen, Michelle Lordi, Michael Weiss, Allan Harris, Reggie Watkins and Howie Alexander. Plus a tribute to Pharaoh Sanders from saxophonist Azar Lawrence, who visits Pittsburgh in March for Kente Arts.
The Scene - Thursday at 6pm, Sunday at 5pm, Friday and Saturday at noon on WZUM.
Suzanne Rideout and Tania Grubbs
Scott Hanley and Aimée Allen
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Orrin Evans
Scott Hanley and Monty Alexander