2025 ARTISTS PERFORMING ON THE JAZZ88 MAIN STAGE
EMMET COHEN TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THE FOUR FRESHMEN
Friday, June 20th at 8:30pm – Mears Park
Emmet Cohen:
Multifaceted American jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen has emerged as one of his generation’s pivotal figures in music and the related arts. A recognized prodigy, Cohen began Suzuki method piano instruction at age three, and his playing quickly became a mature melding of musicality, technique, and concept. Downbeat observed that his “nimble touch, measured stride and warm harmonic vocabulary indicate he’s above any convoluted technical showmanship.” In the same spirit, Cohen himself has noted that playing jazz is “about communicating the deepest levels of humanity and individuality; it’s essentially about connections,” both among musicians and with audiences. He leads his namesake ensemble, the “Emmet Cohen Trio,” is a vibrant solo performer, and is in constant demand as a sideman. Possessing a fluid technique, an innovative tonal palette, and an extensive repertoire, Cohen plays with the command of a seasoned veteran and the passion of an artist fully devoted to his medium.
Emmet Cohen is committed to the intergenerational transfer of artistic knowledge, history, and traditions. His signature professional undertaking is the “Masters Legacy Series,” a celebratory set of recordings and interviews honoring legendary jazz musicians. He serves as both producer and pianist for each album in the series. The goal of this landmark, ongoing project is to provide musicians of multiple generations a forum to transfer the unwritten folklore that is America’s unique musical idiom.
Emmet Cohen’s exacting keyboard artistry has garnered numerous accolades from the international jazz community. He placed first in both the American Jazz Pianists competition (2014) and the Phillips Piano Competition at the University of West Florida (2011). He was a finalist in the prestigious American Pianists Association’s Cole Porter Fellowship (2015, 2011) and the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition (2011). Cohen has appeared in world-renowned jazz events, including the Newport, Monterey, North Sea, Bern, Edinburgh, Detroit, and Jerusalem jazz festivals, as well as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia. He has also performed at the Village Vanguard, the Blue Note, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, Birdland, Jazz Standard, London’s Ronnie Scott’s, Jazzhaus Montmartre in Copenhagen, Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall, the Cotton Club in Tokyo, and the Kennedy Center, and was received in the Oval Office by President Obama. He is currently Hammond B-3 organist-in-residence at Harlem’s SMOKE jazz club.
Emmet Cohen – piano
Kyle Pool – drums
Yasushi Nakamura – bass
The Four Freshmen:
To many music enthusiasts, The Four Freshmen need no introduction. Starting as college students in 1948, the young group won fame with their renditions of “Graduation Day,” “Poinciana,” “Day by Day” and “It’s a Blue World.” Stan Kenton played a major role in advancing the early career of The Four
Freshmen, and their unique sound strongly influenced other vocal groups, such as Manhattan Transfer, Take 6 and the Beach Boys. Although the names and faces have changed over the last nearly 75 years, the harmony and legendary sound of The Four Freshmen continue to fascinate audiences worldwide. The Four Freshmen style has been responsible for over 50 albums, 70 top selling singles and six Grammy nominations. Voted as Downbeat Magazine’s Vocal Group of the Year in 2000 and 2001 and Vocal Group of the Year for 2007 by Jazz Times magazine, they received the “Satchmo” award in 2010 and were presented with a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars in 2013.
Today’s Four Freshmen ensemble is considered by many to be the greatest jazz vocal group of all time. The current quartet consists of highly educated, musically diverse young men who provide their own accompaniment. They not only preserve the Freshmen sound, they enhance it with their youth, vitality and talent, giving new treatments to the Great American Songbook. They continue to tour worldwide with sold-out audiences, sharing their unique brand of magnetism, stage presence and approach to The Four Freshmen standards.
Jake Baldwin
Tommy Boynton
Bob Ferreira
Ryan Howe
CATHERINE RUSSELL WITH SEAN MASON
Saturday, June 21st at 8:30pm – Mears Park
Catherine Russell:
Grammy Award winning vocalist Catherine Russell is a native New Yorker, born into musical royalty. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist/composer/bandleader, and Louis Armstrong’s long-time musical director. Her mother, Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist/guitarist/bassist who performed with International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams, and Sy Oliver.
A graduate of American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Ms. Russell has toured the world, performing and recording with David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Jackson Browne, Michael Feinstein, The Holmes Brothers, Wynton Marsalis, and Rosanne Cash, among others, appearing on over 200 albums. Since the 2006 release of her debut album, Cat, on Harmonia Mundi’s World Village label, six acclaimed and chart topping albums have followed, including Strictly Romancin’, awarded Prix du Jazz Vocal 2012 (Vocal Album of The Year) by the Jazz Academy in France, and Bring It Back in 2014. Catherine Russell was a featured artist on a Grammy Award winning soundtrack album for the HBO-TV series, Boardwalk Empire.
Her 6th album, Harlem On My Mind, was released in September 2016 and received a Grammy® Nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Catherine has appeared on PBS-TV and on Fresh Air with Terry Gross on NPR. Will Friedwald writing in The Wall Street Journal, calls Catherine Russell “one of the outstanding singers of our time.” Catherine’s 7th album as a leader, Alone Together, was released in March 2019 on Dot Time Records, and held the #1 position on the JazzWeek 2019 Year End Chart for national radio play, while receiving her 2nd Grammy® Nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album.
Sean Mason:
“Mason’s music is… exceptionally groovy.”
— NPR
Sean Mason, renowned for his innovative approach and versatile musical expression, has established himself as a prominent figure in jazz. A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, he is celebrated for both his original compositions and his masterful interpretations that meld the intricacies of jazz with diverse musical elements, showcasing a remarkable breadth of style.
Mason’s debut album, The Southern Suite, released on Jazz at Lincoln Center’s in-house label, Blue Engine Records, highlights his exceptional skill as both a pianist and composer with a wide- ranging musical vision. This album features an all-star cast of musicians, most of whom he befriended during his studies at The Juilliard School in New York City—Chris Lewis (tenor saxophone), Tony Glausi (trumpet), Felix Moseholm (bass), and Domo Branch (drums). The Southern Suite is lauded for its deep roots in jazz tradition while embracing a contemporary sensibility, captivating a broad audience. It has garnered critical acclaim and rave reviews from esteemed media outlets such as NPR, Downbeat, and many others.
Mason’s recent project, My Ideal, is a collaboration with esteemed vocalist Catherine Russell. The album, which was GRAMMY® Nominated for Best Jazz Vocal Album, showcases Mason’s artistry as both a pianist and arranger, seamlessly complementing Russell’s timeless vocal interpretations.
Throughout his career, Mason has collaborated and worked with a multitude of distinguished artists, ensembles, and organizations, spanning many genres and generations. He has performed or recorded with jazz legends such as Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis (including the Netflix soundtracks Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and Rustin), Christian McBride, and Dave Liebman, as well as contemporary artists such as Masego. In leadership roles, Sean served as the music director for many organizations, including The Jazz Continuum, founded by Latasha Barnes (which garnered him a Bessie Award in 2023 alongside Charles Turner III), and The Soapbox Presents, founded by Marija Abney (in which he served as music director featuring a diverse range of artists, from local community talents to stars such as Babyface). Additionally, Sean has worked in various musical roles in Broadway productions such as Hadestown, Phantom of the Opera, and other Broadway and off-Broadway shows. Mason’s ability to blend traditional jazz with modern elements sets him apart as a unique voice in the jazz world, cementing him as one of the most in-demand pianists, composers, and music directors worldwide.
In addition to his performing and recording achievements, Mason is a dedicated educator and mentor. He conducts workshops and masterclasses around the globe, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for jazz with aspiring musicians. His down-to-earth and practical style of teaching has led to a strong following from high school, college, and adult students alike. Sean’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists is evident in his unwavering belief that it is necessary to develop a keen respect for the roots of jazz while maintaining an open, yet discerning ear about contemporary music.
Sean Mason is proud to be a distinguished Steinway Artist.
Band Members:
DOREEN’S JAZZ NEW ORLEANS
Friday, June 20th 6:00PM – Mears Park
Doreen’s Jazz brings the best of New Orleans to every performance. This group has performed their joyful, energetic original and soulful New Orleans jazz in (47) states and (24) countries. Doreen’s Jazz has represented the United States on several occasions by teaching and performing for Dignitaries and Royalty, including (4) US Presidents. Doreen’s Jazz, and its representatives, can also be found in numerous publications, radio, and television shows, including CBS Sunday Morning, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Beyonce’s Lemonade Video Album, Treme, on HBO, Drunk History, as well as, commercials, music videos and movies, including New Orleans Tourism commercials, Tyler Perry’s Temptation, Out of Blue and Come On, Come On, 2022. Lately, Doreen’s Jazz has also “Rocked the House”, at the Kennedy Center, in Wash. D.C., Hylton Performing Arts Center, in VA, Symphony Hall, in Dallas, TX, The Kellogg Theatre, in Battle Creek, MI, as well as, the Wolf Trap, in VA with The President’s own Marine Band!
Doreen’s Jazz has managed to establish a stellar reputation, millions of fans around the world and Internet Fame with viral videos reaching over ninety-five million views! We have also recorded 33 CD’s & 3 DVD’s displaying our incredible musical abilities. Doreen’s Jazz spreads the culture of New Orleans around the world. Tourists from all over the world come to Royal St. @ St. Peter St., to experience the magic of Doreen’s Jazz New Orleans. All of this and more through God’s gift of The Streets of New Orleans. Doreen’s performance in St. Louis Cathedral, with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, is still a YouTube favorite, with 1.5M views! Lawrence joined Doreen to perform for the closing ceremonies of the New Orleans’ 300-year celebration which included Clergy leaders from around the world, and were honored with a proclamation from the City Council and City of New Orleans. Our newest viral video is Doreen playing “You Are My Sunshine to her grandson; (10M views, on Instagram!)
Doreen’s Jazz has successfully created their own style that blends classical training with the soul of gospel, blues, and jazz. This band has changed the way many scholars view their Instruments, as it relates to both Classical and Jazz ensembles. Doreen’s Jazz’s intense passion gets under your skin and brings you to a new place. Be it, Gospel, Blues, R&B, Classical or Jazz. Doreen’s Jazz can rock the house on many levels and bring the audience to it’s feet singing along and dancing, as if they’re on stage! Doreen’s Jazz New Orleans continues to travel the world giving exceptional presentations of fun, energetic, educational, and soulful New Orleans music, that tingle the senses with the many flavors of Traditional New Orleans Jazz.
Band Members:
L.A. BUCKNER & BiG HOMiE
Saturday, June 21st 6:00PM – Mears Park
Arthur “L.A.” Buckner, one of the Twin Cities’ most creative drummers, has taken iTunes by storm with the release of his project BiG HOMiE, which reached the #1 Jazz position within 24 hours of its August, 2020 release. A fusion of his musical influences of Gospel, R&B, HipHop, African Rhythm, and Jazz explodes in a fiery journey of syncopation and truth, earning the respect of the most trained musical ear to the everyday music lover that appreciates a good “bop.” Collaborating with some of the finest musicians in Minnesota, including a feature by Mint Condition’s Stokely Williams, Buckner serves as executive producer. Along with a creative rendition of “Deja Vu” and a jolting take on “Human Nature,” the original single “Ooowee” solidifies L.A. as a writer/producer to be reckoned with.
Band Members:
Arthur “L.A.” Buckner – founder & drums
David Feily – guitar
David Smith – keyboard
Jovan Williams – saxophone
Ethan Yeshaya – bass
Jamani Buckner – percussion
ADI YESHAYA JAZZ ORCHESTRA FEATURING JENNIFER GRIMM
Friday, June 20th 4:00PM – Mears Park
When the artistry of vocalist Jennifer Grimm met the mastery of composer-arranger Adi Yeshaya, a new sound was born. Don’t miss this thirteen-piece jazz orchestra in a night of compositions and new arrangements of jazz and pop favorites.
Composer, arranger and jazz pianist Adi Yeshaya was born and raised in Israel. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Adi has been active as a musician and educator for nearly four decades. He has arranged and orchestrated shows for many artists. These include Prince, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Lena Horne and Burt Bacharach. Also, Adi has arranged for the Swiss Jazzaar Jazz Festival and NBC’s The Voice. As a resident of the Twin Cities, he served as a pianist and musical director for Debbie Duncan for nearly three decades until her passing. Moreover, he has performed and arranged for the Minnesota Orchestra with conductors Sarah Hicks and Doc Severinsen. Further, he’s worked with countless singers and ensembles like Bruce Henry, Cookie Coleman, the Guthrie Theater and Jack McDuff. Also, he plays with JazzMN Orchestra and of course his own Big Band. Adi is an active educator, as well. To that end, he has taught at the University of Minnesota, McNally Smith College of Music and Berklee College of Music.
Jennifer Grimm was born into one of America’s last-standing traveling vaudeville families. She continues to choose music and entertainment as her profession. Moreover, she regularly appears in concert halls, theaters, jazz clubs, and performing arts centers nationwide.
Jennifer has landed many TV spots for her original music: whether singing, songwriting or producing. Additionally, she works in the voiceover industry and has been the voice of many national companies and numerous audiobooks.
LEARN MORE: AdiYeshaya.com
LEARN MORE: Jennifergrimm.com
Saturday, June 21st 2:00PM – Mears Park
Can chamber music and jazz fusion coexist in the same sonic landscape? Society of Chemists answers this with compositions that span the spectrum of art and pop. Stephanie Wieseler — tenor saxophone, flute, synth/samples
Band Members:
Stephanie Wieseler – tenor saxophone, flute, synth/samples
Jack Barrett — piano, synth
Charlie Bruber — upright and electric bass
Ben Ehrlich — drums
PATTY PETERSON PRESENTS JAZZ WOMEN ALL STARS
Saturday, June 21st 4:00PM – Mears Park
The Jazz Women All Stars were created by Minnesota Music Hall of Fame vocalist and KBEM jazz radio personality Patty Peterson. In 2016, the Jazz Women All-Stars made a terrific debut at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in Mears Park. This ensemble celebrates the great women of jazz artists in the Twin Cities, instrumentalists as well as vocalists. Patty has, once again, organized a prestigious line-up for a show that is not to be missed. For this performance, the Jazz Women All Stars will feature vocalist Patty Peterson, vocalist Ginger Commodore, keyboardist Mary Louise Knutson, bassist Karyn Quinn, drummer Sheila Earley, and saxophonist Sue Orfield. These musicians who will fill the stage with their talent and who have performed and recorded with Doc Severinsen, Oleta Adams, Bobby Lyle, and many more.
Band Members:
Patty Peterson – Vocals
Ginger Commodore – Vocals
Mary Louise Knutson – Piano
Karyn Quinn – Bass
Sue Orfield – Sax
Sheila Earley – Drums
OTHER SCHEDULED PERFORMANCES
Friday, June 20th 7:30PM – Jazz on 5th Street Stage
Las Guaracheras is a powerful Latin Music sextet from Cali, Colombia that performs Afro-Caribbean rhythms such as salsa, as well as music from the Pacific region of Colombia. Their compositions and lyrics revolve around the revindication and recognition of the role of women in the music industry – especially in the Latin Music scene in Colombia – and seek to express the power and strength of women as sources of love, hope, resilience and creativity.
Selected to form part of the 2025/26 Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation Performing Arts Exchange (PAGE), Las Guaracheras have been featured at U.S. venues such as: Lotus Festival (IN), Freight & Salvage (CA), etc. and in 2025 will be at LACMA Latin Sounds (CA), Twin Cities Jazz Festival (MN) and others. They have performed in Europe and the Americas at venues such as: Sunfest (Canada), Cubadisco (Cuba), BIME (Spain), Portamérica Latitudes/FIMpro, and El Zócalo (Mexico).
VIDEO “Mírala”: https://youtu.be/Mjuio7GtLyI?si=80SUSQXNyOYFQ9Mc
Band Members:
Laura Linares – congas
Gina Botia – timbales
Diana Sánchez – lead vocals
Elizabeth Muñóz – keyboard
Katherine Ortega – vibraphone
Daniela Vergara – bass
an experiment pt. II WITH LESLIE PARKER & COLLABORATORS
Saturday, June 21st 4:00PM – Cedar Cultural Center
RSVP/Register for this FREE event HERE
Leslie Parker Dance Project brings together improvisers in the Twin Cities who practice various models of Black improvisation from around the world to an exchange in practice (June 16 – June 20, 2024).
The Black Dance Improvisation summer intensive is a no-cost opportunity to study with Parker as well as Amara T. Smith, Onye Ozuzu, and Sydney Mosley. Sessions will take place at Barbara Barker Dance Studio on the University of Minnesota campus and in the St. Paul community. Black Dance Improvisation is a celebration of Pan-Black/African cultural experiences internationally and is an extension of the Call to Remember methodologies. This opportunity is for but not limited to all dance creatives steeped into performance practices.
BDI Intensive 2025 welcomes all bodies to participate in deepening awareness of their Improvisation. Artists who are also organizers, administrators, activists, and co-conspirators of varied dance advocacy are strongly encouraged to attend.
Join us for the culminating BDI Intensive event, an experiment pt. II with performances by Black Dance Improvisation Intensive participants & Music Collaborative: Farai Malianga, Dameun Strange, and DeCarlo Jackson with musical guests. An open public sharing of Black Improvisation at The Cedar Cultural Center on Saturday, June 21, 2024 at 4pm. Free! Co-presented by Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Leslie Parker Dance Project, and Cedar Cultural Center. This Cultural Districts Art Fund program activity is funded by the Arts & Cultural Affairs Department in the City of Minneapolis.
Post-Festival show on Sunday, June 22nd – Cedar Cultural Center
A new edition performance at The Cedar Cultural Center on Sunday, June 22 at 7:30pm. Come witness Leslie Parker & Collaborators featuring special guests! This single evening performance is a post Twin Cities Jazz festival event. For ticket information, click here.