Earshot Jazz is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

February 2021 A Mirror and Focus for the Jazz Community Volume 37, No. 02 Seattle, Washington

Benjamin Hunter Standing at the Crossroads of Music and Community

Photo by Daniel Sheehan Letter from the Director

Black History is NOW! As we celebrate Black History Month, especially EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR this February, it’s important to consider the word John Gilbreath “history” in active terms. More than just a study of MANAGING DIRECTOR the past, history offers an opportunity to consider Karen Caropepe today’s realities in a larger arc with tomorrow’s MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE possibilities. It can be a call to action. Realizing Lucienne Aggarwal EARSHOT JAZZ EDITOR our own active role in history, we can more easily Lucienne Aggarwal understand our responsibility to it. And with a year EARSHOT JAZZ COPY EDITOR like 2020 still looming large in our rearview mirrors, Caitlin Carter the road ahead is equally clear. Black history is in CONTRIBUTING WRITERS front of us, not behind, and we all have work to do. John Gilbreath photo by Bill Uznay Paul de Barros, Ian Gwin, Rayna Mathis, Paul, Jazz music is a cultural treasure of Black America. Rauch, Jonathan Shipley CALENDAR EDITORS Simply put: no Black America, no jazz. Carol Levin and Jane Emerson And jazz has an equally fluid relationship to history. To consider jazz as some- PHOTOGRAPHY thing that has already happened does it a grave disservice. Jazz history is a living Daniel Sheehan history, and its deepest threads have always been about Black experience and L AYO U T Black innovation. Creative Black Music, Liberation Music, Black American Music Karen Caropepe (BAM), Black Arts, and what the Art Ensemble of Chicago advanced as “Great DISTRIBUTION Black Music” have inspired and powered the art form through the years, in spite Karen Caropepe, Dan Dubie & Earshot Jazz volunteers of cultural appropriation, white privilege, and the unbalanced power dynamics SEND CALENDAR INFORMATION TO: of the marketplace. [email protected] The Earshot Jazz organization is proud to have presented Seattle concerts by BOARD OF DIRECTORS many of the legends of the Black avant-garde. In its early years, with the artistic Chris Icasiano (President), Sheila Hughes (Vice President), Chris Nutter (Secretary), Augusto vision of co-founder Gary Bannister, Earshot stepped right in with concerts by Cardoso, John W. Comerford, Maurice James, Cecil Taylor, Don Cherry, Sun Ra, Michele Rosewoman, Bobby Hutcherson, Butch Danielle Leigh, Ruby Smith Love, Diane Wah Morris, James Blood Ulmer, Don Pullen, Jimmy McGriff, Horace Tapscott, An- EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS drew Hill, Henry Threadgill, and the World Saxophone Quartet, among others. Clarence Acox, Sue Coliton, Taina Honkalehto, Hideo Makihara, Peter Monaghan, Kenneth W. Over the ensuing years, Earshot has offered Seattle stages to vanguard artists Masters, Lola Pedrini, Richard Thurston, Paul like the Art Ensemble of Chicago, Ornette Coleman, William Parker, David S. Toliver, Cuong Vu Ware, Sam Rivers, Pharoah Sanders, Amina Claudine Myers, Dewey Redman, Founded in 1984 by Paul de Barros, Gary Steve Coleman, Billy Bang, Wayne Shorter, David Murray, Kahil El’Zabar, Carmen Bannister, and Allen Youngblood. Earshot Jazz is published monthly and is available online at Lundy, and Wadada Leo Smith. Earshot has presented artists close to the African earshot.org. diaspora, such as Abdullah Ibrahim, Randy Weston, Somi, Bheki Mseleku, Omar Subscription (with membership): $35 Sosa, and Hugh Masekela, as well as jazz poets Amiri Baraka, James McBride, 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221 Ishmael Reed, Paul Harding, and Kamau Daáood. Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 547-6763 Earshot continues its commitment to creative Black arts by presenting for- ward-looking artists of the movement, often for their first time in Seattle, like Earshot Jazz ISSN 1077-0984 Printed by Yakima Herald-Republic Jason Moran, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, Darius Jones, Marquis Hill, Burnt ©2021 Earshot Jazz Society of Seattle Sugar, Nicole Mitchell, Matthew Shipp, Jazzmeia Horn, Joel Ross, Makaya McCraven, Brandee Younger, Ambrose Akinmusire, Craig Taborn, and many others. As always, we invite your suggestions and support. Now, more than ever. MISSION STATEMENT Finally, and I think bears repeating: Happy New Year! We have a long way to go, To ensure the legacy and progression to be sure, but it finally feels as if we’re unstuck, and at least inching it forward. of the art form, Earshot Jazz cultivates Congratulations! Let us know how we can help. a vibrant jazz community by engaging Be safe out there. audiences, celebrating artists, and supporting arts education. –JOHN GILBREATH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

2 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 SPECIAL NOTES ANNOUNCEMENT rent, utilities, and other business expenses. Correction Applicants can apply for two grants: an initial In the January 2021 edition of Earshot Seattle Jazz Artist Relief Jazz, we published an album review with grant, which will provide 45% of 2019 gross incorrect information. The Postponed Parade earned revenue, and a supplemental grant. Fund—Second Round Once the Small Business Administration album review credited Geoff Harper as the Seattle Jazz Artist Relief Fund is a has established regulations to administer soloist on the song “Shoreline”—Michael program, administered by Earshot the program, applications are anticipated Glynn is the correct soloist. We apologize Jazz, that will provide direct financial to be accepted on or after April 1, 2021. for this error. relief to individual jazz artists most For more details visit nivassoc.org. affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. SMASH Healthcare Thanks to the generosity of the Raynier Seattle Musicians Access to Sustainable Paycheck Protection Program Institute and Foundation, Earshot Healthcare provides comprehensive health- Included in Economic Aid Act Jazz will be able to make 30 $1,000 care, emphasizing prevention and wellness, With the passing of the COVID-19 stimulus gifts directly to individual artists in bill, which includes more funding for the to musicians in the local community. this second round. Musicians can join SMASH for free and PPP, the Small Business Administration access free and low-cost care including has released information about how to Only applicants who are in the Greater mental health therapy, hearing screenings, apply for the program. First priority goes to Seattle area, are at least 18 years of as well as preventative dental services first-time PPP borrowers, including minori- age, and are experiencing extreme and healthcare. To be eligible musicians ty-owned, veteran-owned, woman-owned, financial hardship due to the impact and music teachers must live in King or and businesses in underserved markets. At of COVID-19 will be considered. We surrounding counties and meet income least 60% of PPP funds must be used for ask that applicants self-evaluate to guidelines. SMASH also accepts donations. payroll while the remaining funds can be determine whether they are experi- Visit smashseattle.org for details. used for mortgage interest, rent, utility, and encing dire financial emergencies in covered operations expenditures. Additional order to make space for those who Save Our Stages Act Passed uses for this round of funding include cer- are most in need. Due to the unprec- A $15 billion package was signed by the tain operational expenses for computing, edented nature of the COVID-19 U.S. Congress on December 27, 2020, as human resources, accounting, supplier pandemic, we define “dire financial part of a $900 billion COVID-19 stimulus costs pursuant to a contract for goods, and emergencies” as the lack or imminent bill (Economic Aid Act) that sets funding personal protective equipment. To find the endangerment of essentials such as aside for independent venues including live nearest advisor in Washington state, visit housing, medicine, caretaking, and music venues and promoters, theatrical the website wsbdc.org/contact-an-advisor; food. We are asking those artists who producers, performing arts organizations, email [email protected]; or phone are currently employed or not facing nonprofit museums, and motion picture 833-4WA-SBDC. severe circumstances to refrain from theaters. Grants may be used for payroll, CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 applying.

Round two of the Seattle Jazz Artist Relief Fund will open on February 1, with guidelines and applications available on earshot.org. The applica- tion opens on February 1 and closes February 28, with the goal to deliver the funds in early March. Individuals who received funding in the first round are eligible to apply again.

Understanding that today’s conditions are untenable for many populations, we realize that this fund is limited in scope. However, we are sincerely grateful to the Raynier Institute and Foundation for their generosity and making this emergency support pro- gram possible for Seattle jazz artists.

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 3 THANK YOU! Thank you to all the generous donors who have supported Earshot the past year, either by donating back tickets, giving via GiveBIG or one of our Fund Drives, or donating during our livestreamed concerts. This list acknowledges donations made between May 21 and December 31, 2020. We are humbled and grateful for your investment in our jazz community, and we thank you for being part of our Earshot family. Please contact [email protected] with questions or corrections.

Jeffrey Adams Joni Brill Robin Dearling and Gary Ulrich Ganz Doug Hawkins John Adams Elizabeth and Michael Akerman Jania Garcia Colleen Hayward Scott Adams Brockman Cheryl Deboise Edward Gardner Jan Hazelton Andrew and Caroline Don Brown Tara Decoster Stephanie Garriga Ellen and Dave Hecht Adamyk Frank Brown R. Jill DeMarco Jessica Garrison Charles Hendrick Marina Albero Leslie Brown Greg Denton Maridee Garvey Cathy Hendrickson Carol J. Allen Judith Bryant Fernando Dingler Chieko Gaylord Kimberly and Philip Kevin Allen Kathy and Wally Bubelis Julie Dirr Steve Germiat Hendrickson Kenneth Anderson and Jeffrey Burk Raymond Monnat and Karen Giese Dan Hensley Sarah Potter Mary A. Burki Christine Disteche Peggy Glick Steven Hering Susan Anderson BiHoa Caldwell Jennifer Dobson Ellen Gliva Steve Hersch Antoinette Angulo Patrick Campbell Patricia Dolan Harold Glucksberg RL Heyer Bill Anschell and Deb Ina Chang and Todd Sharon Ducey Gary Goldbaum Lauren Heyne Choat Campbell Colleen McKinnon and Michael Goodheim Catherine Hillenbrand Noriko and Lawrence Gus Cardoso David Dugdale Danielle Goodson Percy Hilo Arnstein Grace and Michael Carlson Robert and Donna Dughi Sandy and Kaye Gough Lance Hodes Rachel Aronovich Mike and Margi Carlson Lorraine Dukes Allen Gown Ken Hogan Diane Arvin Frank and Denise Catalano Nicole DuRoche Paul Grace Richard D Browning and Charles Asbury Mun Choi Mary Dyczewski Libby Graham Anne Holmes Reilly Atkinson Linda and Tod Christensen Jeff Eaton Ann-Marie Granger Juanita Holmes Cheryl Avery Jason Civjan Keith Eisenbrey Bruce Mclean Greeley Mark Hoover Suzan Ballsun David Clark Rosalie and Dave Ellgen Lauren Greenfield Pat Horn Katherine Banwell Lisa Clark Lynda Emel Tony and Jean Greenwald Marc Horowitz Mark and Heather Barbieri Steve Clarke David and Jane Emerson Tammy Greenwell Robin Holcomb and Wayne Lisa Barclay Andrew Clausen john emerson Nick Gregoric III Horvitz Michael Barton Sally and Curt Clausen Cindy Bee and Nick Francis Gregory Geneva Hudson Scott Becker Sophia Smith and Dinnen Ericson Elizabeth Flavin and Paul Elizabeth Huebner Carol Beers Cleary Steve Evavold Grekin Cynthia Hughen Ethan Bennett Jessica Cohen Kaegan Faltys-Burr Joe Grojean Sheila Hughes Al Bergstein Leon Cohen Chris Farnsworth Robert Grunau Mike Huijon Erik Schweighofer and Susan Coldwell Elaine Faustman Adriana Ramirez de Kenneth Allan and Naomi Elizabeth Birkholz Debby and John Cole Cynthia Faw Arellano and Tom Guralnick Hume Sergei and Kathy Bischak Piyale Comert Sabella Flagg Sandy Ha Anne Buzy-Hummel and Douglas Bishea Kerri Conan Martha Fleming Susan Hackenberg Peter Hummel Ben Bishoff Connie Coffman William B Forbes and Linda Hagerman A.J. Humphreys Denise Blackwell Janet Corriston Karen Jackson Forbes Ron Smith and Deb Hall Jack Hunden Scott Blaufeux George Counts Trevor Ford Thomas Hall Ernie Hurwitz Diane Wah and Hal Lawrence Cousins Linda Fornero Caitlin Hamer Jack Hutchinson Blumberg Kathleen Creahan Eva Foster Deborah Hammond Barry Hyman Nate Bogopolsky Steven Crozier Gladys Fox Michael Handler Nefertari I Michael Bokrosh Derek Crump Urania Perez and Jonathan Krista Hanson Chie Iida and Michael Arthur Borst Bonnie Cumings Freedman Nicole Hanson Allison Molly Bosted Linda Cummings Penny Freedman Paul Harding Richard Israel Herb Bowie John Damberg Christophe Frick David Harrell Dennis and Cynthia Jim Boyle Tobias Dang Kai Fujita Herbert Harris Jackson Roxanne Boyle Susan Danielson Dannee Fullerton Malcolm Harris Janelle Jacobs Colleen Boynton Antonio DaSilva Joey Meyer and Terry Karen Hartfield Sibyl James Seth Brandon Peter and Cynthia Furlong Bret Hartman Jeffrey Janeczko Reid Branson Davenport Danielle Gaines Beth Ann Hartwick Mark Janicke Becca Bregel Gayle Davis Joseph and Katherine Sara Harvey R. Chandrasekar and Kody Ellen Breiten Jerry Davis Galagan Ashraf Hasham Janney Gary Breiwick Melanie Davis-Jones Laurence Greenberg and Alan Hashimoto Lucy Jarosz Anthony Bridgewater Laurie and Steve de Koch Kathleen Gallagher Virginia Hassinger Martin Jellinek

4 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 Susan Jenkins and Steve David Lindberg Regina Morton Katherine Ransel Neil Sunderland Herndon Laura Lindhe Steven and Allen Mosley Ellie Rapp Ryuta Suzuki Douglas and Alison B Parker Lindner Matthew Muldoon Stephen Raskin Sala Sweet Jennings Yumi Liu Anne and Shirish Kimberly Rawson Nancy Sweiven Joseph Sims and Kimberly Audrey Livermore Mulherkar James Recob Brent Swenson Johnson Seattle Art Museum Seth Nesbitt Eddie and Beverly Reed Brendan Sylvander Jake Johnston Dorothy Jo Lower David Newman Karel Reeves Lawrence Symonds Eugenie Jones Edythe Lurie Ivy Ng Ann Reynolds Andrea Jesperson and Francis Jones and Laura Linda Luster Joel Nichols Jean Rietschel Nathaniel Talbot Shapiro David Lutz Clark Nicholson Melissa Riker Mike Tampieri Ron Jones Muir MacKean Paul Nicholson Marjorie and Ed Ringness Tim Tapping William E. Jones Quinn MacKenzie Mercedes Nicole Natasha Rivers Cathy Tashiro Joseph Jowdy Donald Magill Esi Nkyekyer Mark Roberts Connie and Earnest Charles Joy James Mancini Lila J Noble Owes Mary Robertson Thomas Brian Kanes Stephanie Mano Nancy Nolan John Robinson Daniel Thomsen Bill Karp Patricia Marcus Kayey Noonan Paul Robinson holly thornton Linda Vangelos and Maria Marion Debra Nordfors Sherri Robinson Joel Thornton Stephen Kaufer Justin Marlowe Kemi Nakabayashi and Jim Jeannie Rodriguez Richard Thurston Stephanie Kay Mike Marriott Norton Karen Rooker Workinesh Tianen Mary Kay Gugerty Anna Martin Dennis and Jamie Notman Jeffrey Ross Shanna Tooley Hiroe Keeler Caral Martin Courtney Westcott and Christian Roth Annette Toutonghi Rosemarie Keenan Erin Martin Peter Noy Kirsten Roth Maureen Traxler Alison Kelly-Rostholder Richard Martin John O’Connell Daniel Rowe Ona Treciokas Jim and Nancy Kenagy Jennifer Stanton and Ofer Robert O’Dell Remedios Roxas Singer Carolyn Trujillo Ron Kenyon Matan Linda Okazaki Evelyn Rubio Scott Tschirhart Jeanne Kimble Dmitri Matheny Melissa Laird and Charles Gundars Rudzitis Aileen Parker and Tony Barney Garton and Kathryn Rayna Mathis Overall Faith Sackey Tudisco Kirkpatrick Gretchen Matis Laura Owen Latha Sampath Mark Turner Dzmitry Kishylau Brenda Matter Ramona Owen Michael Samples Helen Tuttle Rick and Anne Kitaeff Talbott Miller and Linda Darryl Owens Nancy Faegenburg David and Reba Utevsky Paul Kizior Maxson Margaret Palo Grant and Dorrit Saviers Dirk and Mary Lou Arthur Knapp Rachel Mayer Jenn Pang Dan Scavezze VanWoerden Jim Knapp Charles Maynard Tim Parker Scott Schaffer Sali Virag Phillip Knight Rob Mazur Elaine Parnell Judy Schimke Vic Vogler David Kopacz Gregg Robinson and Susan Brandy Parris Marvin Schmidt Peter Vogt Paul Korsmo McAdams Trevor Parrish Diane Schmitz John Volkman Kathleen and Timothy Bill and Colleen McAleer Kathy Partida John Schussler Thom Votteler Koss Louise McAllister Robert Pastorok Ray Stark and Lynn Jim and Judy Wagonfeld David Krause Sean McCain Mary Paterson Schwendiman Jennifer Wah Robert Kremers Mary Jo McCassey Robert Patrick Lisa Seifert John and Madeline Wall Richard and Elizabeth Sue and William McColl Allison and David Patton Maxine Seward Todd Wallar Krochalis Alex McCollough Brad Pearce Dave and Joan Shannon Bradford Walzer Anne Kroeker Gabrielle Mccoy Michael Peck Joshua Shaw Kelli P Washington Karol Krotki Maria McDaniel Dean Pedersen Lynn Sherk Jon Watson Amanda Kunz Brian McDonald James and Wendy Jeffrey Sherman Heidi Watters David Thornbrugh and Brent McFarlane Peterkin Scott Shimel Donald Wayne Joan Laage Linda McKay Chris Peterson Carl Shipley Sybil Weber Elizabeth Labadie Richard McMinn Dorothy Peterson Richard and Meg Siegel Laura Welland Lisa Labossiere Michael McNiven Margie and Eric Ray Kaye Simmons Lisa Werner Sandra Lafontaine Robin and Tim McQuinn Peterson Jim Brian and Marissa Mark Wheeler Richard Lague Heather Mead Samuel R. Pettis Singleton Dennis White and Jane Langill Melissa Meade Ruby Phillips Steven Siranides Charlotte Bell Katrina Larsen Angela Medina James Pickrel Joan Smallwood Jacqueline White Kurt Lauer Renee Lenti and Paul Jim Pierce Arlo Smith Elizabeth Whiteman Christopher Laughbon Meijer Susan Plahn Corinne Smith Jim Wilke Walter Laughridge James Mertens John C. Pohl Walter Smith Dana Williams Judith and Lee Leader Barbara Metch Constance and Philip Pons Carlos Snaider Deb Williams Ji Lee Walter Millar Dean Poor Susan Soler Nascimento Donna Williamson Kathy Lee Devon Miller John and Anne Pound Steven Soos Jeffrey Wilner Danielle Leigh Melanie Miller Melinda and Randy Powers Karen Stanley Eliane Wilson Candace Lein-Hayes Susan Miller Nancy Powers Christine and Josh Michael Winkelhorst Mike Lempriere Toby Miller Karen J Fossum and Tarkel Stepherson Annalena Wolf Robert Leo Pamela Mills Price Jack Stevenson Leslie Womack Cherrie Adams and Rick Sheila Mitchell Carol Pruzan George Strohofer Alan and Roslyn Woodle Leppanen Russell Mofsky Jon Quitslund Pat Strosahl Rose Woodward Stephen Lerch Bradley Mohr Lyn Quitslund John Suggs Rana Wright Susan Lerner Wesley Moore Patrick Cagney and Alisa Gail Sullivan Howard Wu David Liebtag Aisha Morgan Ralph David Summers and Ellen Ziegler Charles and Shirley Martina Morris Judy Rand Shirley Feldman-Summers Mark Zobel Lienesch Kirsten Morrison Mark Raney Nathan Sun-Kleinberger Joseph Zohn

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 5 GOLDEN EAR AWARDS

Each year, the Golden Ear Awards recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of the previous year in Seattle jazz. With the pandemic, the continued fight for racial justice, and threats to American democracy, 2020 has been a difficult and very different year. We acknowledge the heavy toll that shuttered venues and restrictions on live performances have taken on our community. Many artists have struggled to perform and create under these challenging circumstances, and we thank all the artists for everything they’ve contributed to the Seattle jazz community this past year. Furthermore, we want to thank everyone who sent in nominations this year. Now, we look forward to hearing from you. Vote online at earshot.org, by email to [email protected], or mail your selections to Earshot Jazz, 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221, Seattle, WA 98103. Ballots are due March 1.

2020 GOLDEN EAR AWARDS BALLOT

NW Recording of the Year Alternative Jazz Group of the Year NW Concert of the Year (live or livestream) Sundae + Mr. Goessl, Fun & Fancy Bad News Botanists Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, □ □ □ Duende Libre, The Dance She Spoke RAE “Tribute to Billie Holiday” at Ben- □ □ aroya Hall (02/01/2020) Ray Larsen, Songs to Fill the Air Ryan Burns □ □ Ahamefule J. Oluo: Music from Susan, Thomas Marriott, Trumpet Ship Electric Circus □ □ □ streamed at the Earshot Jazz Festival Ryan Burns, Postponed Parade Amy Denio □ □ (10/18/2020) Other______Other______Marc Seales Quintet at Jazz Alley □ □ □ (02/24/2020) NW Acoustic Jazz Ensemble of the Year NW Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year Cuong Vu and Ted Poor at Cry & Roar Jacob Zimmerman Trio Neil Welch □ □ □ X, Café Racer (01/24/2020) Thomas Marriott Quintet Alex Dugdale Bad Luck fundraiser for Wa Na Wari □ □ □ Sundae + Mr. Goessl James Falzone streamed via Live Concerts Stream □ □ (08/25/2020) Bill Anschell Trio Kate Olson □ □ Other______EarthtoneSkytone Ray Larsen □ □ □ Other______Other______□ □ Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame Steve Kim □ Emerging Artist of the Year NW Vocalist of the Year Robin Holcomb Josh Hou Kate Voss □ □ □ Jim Knodle Abbey Blackwell Johnaye Kendrick □ □ □ Hans Teuber Tony Lefaive Ayesha Brooks □ □ □ Moc Escobedo Dylan Hayes Elnah Jordan □ □ □ Other______Xavier Lecouturier Chava Mirel □ □ □ Other______Other______□ □

Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame Inductees 1990 1994 1999 2004 2008 2012 2016 Ernestine Anderson Clarence Acox Vonne Griffin Gaye Anderson KBCS 91.3 Scott Brown Bill Anschell Al Hood Bud Young Red Kelly Hadley Caliman Phil Sparks Dave Peck Jay Clayton Chuck Metcalf 1995 2000 Robert Knatt 2009 2013 2017 Floyd Standifer Jerome Gray Bud Shank 2005 Marc Seales Bill Frisell Patty Padden 1991 1996 Chuck Stentz Gary Steele Stuart Dempster Bert Wilson Skerik Buddy Catlett Norm Bobrow 2001 Mack Waldron 2010 2014 2018 Don Lanphere William O. (Bill) John Dimitriou Woody Woodhouse Chuck Deardorf Amy Denio Bob Hammer 1992 Smith Julian Priester 2006 Wayne Horvitz Greta Matassa Helen and David Jabo Ward 1997 2002 Jim Knapp 2011 2015 Marriott Sr. Jim Wilke Lola Pedrini Paul de Barros KPLU Overton Berry Ruby Bishop Wally Shoup 1993 Bill Ramsay 2003 2007 Jeff Johnson Sonny Booker 2019 Fred Greenwell 1998 Ronnie Pierce John Bishop Jovino Santos Neto Randy Halberstadt Michael Brockman Melody Jones Jan Stentz Jay Thomas Dean Hodges Suzanne Weg Leon Vaughn Gary Bannister

6 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 BECOME A MEMBER AND WATCH SHOWS ONLINE FOR FREE! Membership starts at $50 Pink Martini Cabaret w/China Forbes & Thomas Lauderdale Wayne Horvitz’ The Royal We · Ted Poor feat. Cuong Vu Brian Jackson “The Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson Songbook” Beat Masterclasses with Kassa Overall & Blue Lab Beats Harold López-Nussa “Live in Havana” · Cyrus Nabipoor Marcus Shelby Quartet “Black Music & Freedom” Indaba Is “Live in Johannesburg” · Judith Hill and much more...

FILMS Herb Alpert Is... · Universe · Buster Williams Bass to Infinity

FEBRUARY 18–27, 2021 | PORTLAND, OR LEARN MORE & GET TICKETS AT PDXJAZZ.COM

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 7 PROFILE Benjamin Hunter: Standing at the Crossroads of Music and Community PAUL RAUCH Benjamin Hunter is an artist in constant motion. Every time one might attempt to designate a title to define his contributions as an artist, he somehow shapeshifts and appears at another nexus of Seattle’s cultural landscape. His award-winning duo with Joe Seamons has enjoyed national acclaim and has taken city jazz fans back to the roots of America’s most original art form. As a violinist, mandolinist, vocalist, and songwriter, Hunter’s musical identity acts as a living, breathing ethnomusicological force, bringing together jazz, blues, folk, and rural Black string band music. His introduction to his instrument, however, was through European classical music. “I was raised as a classical violinist. Reading music off the page, and thinking about it in very specific, instructed ways. But also, I was lucky at a young age to travel the world, my mom really valued travel. I was raised with that appreciation for things outside of my norm, including Benjamin Hunter photo by Daniel Sheehan music,” recalls Hunter. That curiosity and fascination in music the space on Rainier Avenue in Hillman not only for this year, but in preparation for and culture has never ceased, resulting City, the increasing amount of repairs when we open. We want to make sure that in the growing contributions Hunter is and associated legal hurdles created an what we are doing as a business is something making to the rapidly changing culture unsustainable model for the cooperative the community can be proud of, because surrounding the Seattle music scene. to sustain itself. The recent purchase of they see themselves being represented in “This convergence of culture, art and the building now fully justifies completing the structure of it all.” community and how they all play a role to the remaining work needed to be done in When we open. Those three words elicit shape the society that we live in. It’s what order to open the hall by the end of 2021 a collective sigh from all of us eager to brings me to this idea of arts and culture or early 2022. The accomplishment is even get back to the business of creating and being one of the most important aspects more remarkable when considering the performing music, and engaging in the of our society. It’s what ultimately makes sizable number of participants involved fellowship that accompanies it. While the us human,” he observes. in the decision-making processes within effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been While being keenly focused on the con- this cooperative organization. catastrophic financially for area stages, it stant evolution of his art, Hunter’s role as “By virtue of having a variety of voices, we has also been a catalyst—generating new a community organizer has also captured are checking ourselves constantly. It means ideas on how to conduct the business of the city’s attention. His work as one of 33 we are hearing voices that also would be presenting performing arts in Seattle going partners in the soon-to-be-opened Black voices from the rest of the community,” forward. Hunter has taken that all to mind and Tan Hall encapsulates his vision for says Hunter. “My role with Black and Tan when looking at ways to assure the success music and the arts acting as a stepping is Director of Arts and Culture. It’s my role of Black and Tan Hall. stone to creating businesses that place peo- now to try to figure out how to develop an “Not just better, but different. The creative ple over profits. After five years of renting entertainment, arts and culture strategy, industry situation in Seattle has been in a

8 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 decline for a number of years because of from, and adding to, the unique and mul- While the year 2020 has been an uphill development overshadowing and taking ticultural fabric that is American music. battle for most, Hunter has seen some people out of the ballgame. It helped make “Folk music is like a river stone, it gets benefits strangely arise from the wreckage. people realize that this system we had that polished each time somebody touches it,” For one, he became a first-time father, and worked for a long time, might not be the is now the proud dad of a nine-month- old son. He has worked hard on adding “Folk music is like a river stone, it guitar to his repertoire of instruments, and exploring new directions in music. gets polished each time somebody While Hunter’s violin style seems almost indigenous to roots forms, his classical touches it.” upbringing and intimate knowledge of jazz music, present an unlimited musical best system for everybody. We might need he points out. “It’s about trusting the fact palette moving forward. His playing to date to find new ways outside of these traditional that there are people out there that already touches terra firma stylistically with Stuff ways to explore how we engage with the have these traditional arts in their bones, Smith and Eddie South. His mandolin arts,” says Hunter. in their culture, and in their homes. What identity presents what he refers to as “an- The name of the hall pays tribute to the happens when you bring those people to- ti-violin,” enabling chordal and rhythmic iconic Black and Tan nightclub opened gether to engage in that environment for contributions. This combined with an in 1922 by black entrepreneur, E. Russell a folk experience to exist?” artistic desire to explore beyond roots jazz “Noodles” Smith. The basement club at Hunter wrote the musical score for danc- and blues is something for Seattle jazz fans the corner of Jackson Street and 12th to keep an eye on in 2021. Avenue was fully integrated, and saw the likes of Charlie Parker, Earl Hines, Lena “By virtue of having a variety of voices, Horne, and Duke Ellington grace its stage before closing in 1966. Ellington’s classic we are checking ourselves constantly. ” early piece, “Black and Tan Fantasy,” was based on his experience at the Jackson er/choreographer Dani Tirrell’s extended “What I’m trying to explore is music from Street night spot. dance piece, “Black Bois.” The effort cul- the Black Diaspora and how to put it all Hunter is the founder of Community minated with a performance at the Moore together. I’ve spent the last couple of years Arts Create, an organization that explores Theatre on February 14, 2020, just before studying West African music, Caribbean the crossroads between art, community, the pandemic restricted live shows. Tirrell music and music that has come out of the and culture. It provides an alternative to describes the work that includes Hunter’s United States—blues, jazz, funk, soul, traditional music education, celebrating music and spoken word by J Mase lll, as and R&B. Some of the stuff that I did for the oral traditions that have generationally “a dance piece that is a ceremony to our Earshot is kind of in the vein of what it enabled jazz, blues, and folk music, with ancestors, and a thanksgiving to our past, looks like to put that all that together, and each generational passing both benefiting present, and future.” see what it sounds like.”

www.jazzinthecity.com

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 9 PREVIEW Westerlies Fest “We created Westerlies Fest to give back evening of chamber music co-presented and February 4–7 to the community that raised us,” says curated by ChamberQUEER, an LGBTQ+ Online “We’re living in an incredibly dark time,” Westerlies cofounder Andy Clausen. “To get chamber music series based in Brooklyn, says Willem de Koch, trombonist and co- into local schools and encourage students’ New York; and world premieres of four new founder of The Westerlies. “We could all passion for music, to give opportunities pieces commissioned by The Westerlies use a boost right now. I find that music to artists we believe deserve wider recog- and written for the ensemble by Hender- always has the ability to lift my spirits nition, and to forge lasting relationships son, Mayo, Kalia Vandever, and Anthony when I’m feeling low.” with collaborators, community organizers, Harvey. “The pieces are in progress as we and audiences.” speak,” de Koch says, “and I can’t wait to de Koch and The Westerlies plan on hear the results!” The Fest also includes bringing us all a boost with their coming But what if you can’t get into local schools workshops, guided listening sessions, and Westerlies Fest. because of COVID-19? What if you can’t be on stage with live audiences because an open Westerlies rehearsal. of pandemic restrictions? How do you The headlining begins February 4, when give opportunities when opportunities Margaux takes the virtual stage. The become decidedly more challenging with 21-year-old singer-songwriter, from Seattle each quarantine and lockdown? With that, and currently residing in Brooklyn, writes the 2021 Westerlies Fest will take place lush intimate music. Her debut EP is More February 4–7, 2021. It will all be online Brilliant is The Hand that Throws the Coin. and it will all be free. On February 5, multi-instrumentalist “Hopefully the artistry of this incredible Morgan Henderson performs. February lineup of musicians will provide comfort to 6 brings jazz vocalist Michael Mayo, who our audiences,” de Koch says. “This year’s has collaborated, or taken the stage with, lineup is so rich and varied, we’re confident such luminaries as Herbie Hancock and there’s something for everyone, whatever Josh Groban. The festival performances your musical inclinations may be!” conclude on February 7 with Chamber- The Westerlies are a Seattle-bred, Brook- QUEER when Danielle Buonaiuto, Brian lyn-based brass ensemble that NPR Music Mummert, Jules Biber, Andrew Yee, and says are “folk-like and composerly, lovely Kevin Devine are set to play. and intellectually rigorous.” Along with Regardless of social distances and quar- de Koch and Clausen, trumpeters Riley antines, The Westerlies are committed to Mulherkar and Chloe Rowlands round out bring us together with their upcoming the quartet. The coming festival will be festival. Music has a way of doing that. their third annual, all streaming on their –JONATHAN SHIPLEY YouTube channel. If there’s a silver lining to the pandemic, de Koch says, it’s that their festival can reach more people this time around. “We’ll TUNE IN be able to reach new audience members “Westerlies Fest” February 4–7 who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to westerliesfest.org attend. We’ve been doing some livestream performances throughout the pandemic, Nightly performances on YouTube and it’s been incredible to see folks tuning are free with RSVP. The Westerlies in from all around the world.” will host a free community JAM- boree on Sunday, with activities for The coming Fest’s performances will have musicians and non-musicians alike. that worldwide flavor with a plethora of For details and links to register, visit performers. There will be performances westerliesfest.org. by Morgan Henderson (Fleet Foxes, Blood Brothers), Michael Mayo, and Margaux; an

10 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 PREVIEW 18th Annual Biamp PDX Jazz Festival on February 21, for what’s sure to be a February 18–27 powerful performance. Jack London Revue, Local performances will continue February Portland, OR and online For its eighteenth year, Portland’s annual 22, when cofounder of the Portland Jazz Biamp PDX Jazz Festival continues with Orchestra Lars Campbell leads the PDX a mix of live performances and real-time Jazz All-Star Pandemic band, a big band web streams. Though state rules to slow the playing favorite arrangements, and Febru- spread of COVID-19 have canceled some ary 23, when Portland group greaterkind performances and postponed others, the will feature the music of Gil Scott-Heron festival will take place with limited in-person and Brian Jackson on February 23. Heron capacity at a newly overhauled Jack London and Jackson’s classic 1974 album Winter in Revue, where it will be broadcast online, America “still resonates loudly in America February 18 to 27. Featuring a selection of today” (Pitchfork). films, premieres from Northwest artists, February 24, the festival will debut its and a debut of commissioned work, the newest education program, “The Ameri- can Refrain: Jazz and Modern Music,” an festival’s sure to give audiences a chance Cyrus Nabipoor photo by Mary Katherine Leslie to listen to music truly of this moment. hour-long performance arranged by Noah Simpson, which narrates the formation of goers can view Nick Capezzera and Sam Streamed for free on the web, an open- Osborn’s Universe. The documentary follows ing night celebration kicks off the festival jazz and its current role in popular music. Bassist Marcus Shelby will also celebrate the late trumpeter Wallace Roney’s perfor- on February 18. The celebration features mance and recording of Wayne Shorter’s a cabaret performance from Northwest the history of Black music with his quartet, featuring Tiffany Austin, Darrell Grant, orchestral suite of the same name, written cosmopolitans Pink Martini, featuring for Miles Davis. Filmmaker Adam Kahan Thomas Lauderdale and China Forbes. and Carlton Jackson, February 26. Seattle favorites appear throughout the interviews a living legend in Buster Wil- The songwriting team behind the popular liams: Bass to Infinity,streaming February group, Lauderdale and Forbes have led festival—Ted Poor and Cuong Vu perform on February 25. Showcasing jazz’s brave 21. February 25, audiences can also view the group’s global sound since writing the director John Scheinfeld’s Herb Alpert is… surprise hit album Sympathique, released new world, Wayne Horvitz will lead his Royal We ensemble, currently a sextet which features rare footage and interviews i n 1997. about the trumpeter and recording artist. February 19, the multifaceted trumpeter featuring Skerik (sax), Alex Guy (violin), Cyrus Nabipoor leads a group off his latest Geoff Harper (bass), Iván Galvez (percus- –IAN GWIN release and debut as a bandleader, Live at the sion) and Andy Roth (drums), on February Marigny Opera House, a “quietly revealing 27th. Also, on the same day take a look behind the scenes as Kassa Overall crafts TUNE IN debut with a keen sense of smoldering tradi- “18th Annual Biamp PDX Jazz tion and youthful investigation” (All About his signature sound in his lab at a “Beats Workshop” in Brooklyn, followed by a Q Festival” Jazz). The same day, pianist and composer February 18–27 & A with Giovanni Russonello. Harold López-Nussa will broadcast directly pdxjazz.com from Havana, Cuba. His latest album, Te For a grand finale, February 26 and 27, Changes to ticketing and attendance Lo Dije, mixes his straight-ahead jazz with South Africa’s freshest musical talent will this year include the ability to view contemporary sounds from the island from stream live from Johannesburg, to showcase music recorded for a new compilation cel- most concerts virtually, with the option the likes of Afro-Cuban superstar Cimafunk of viewing some of the concerts in ebrating South African improvised music, and reggaeton vocalist Randy Malcolm. person at the Jack London Revue, in A former protégé of Prince and collabora- Indaba Is, to be released 2021. These artists downtown Portland. Shows will be tor with John Legend, vocalist Judith Hill include the performance art ensemble the available to view for 48 hours and films will perform February 20. Hill has backed Brother Moves On, genre-defying guitar- will be available for 72 hours. PDX Jazz artists like Stevie Wonder and Michael ist Sibusile Xaba, and others, sure to be Members watch all concerts online Jackson, and has a new album due this festival highlights. for free, while non-members can buy year. Oregon gospel singers Saeeda Wright, The festival will also feature three film livestream tickets for as low as $5 per show. For details visit pdxjazz.com. Alonzo Chadwick, and Arietta Ward follow debuts: beginning February 18, festival

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 11 PREVIEW

Jackson Streetlives remains Jazz real and constant Walk and hate 2021 Saturday & Sunday, February drives us apart, JSJW Executive Producer, 27–28, 2021, 7pm PST singer, and songwriter, Eugenie Jones so Livestream: Facebook & YouTube gently reminds us. “Historically, and un- Mark your calendars for Jackson Street like the redline areas of Seattle—Central Jazz Walk’s 2021 virtual concert, which will Seattle and venues like the Black & Tan be streaming online February 27–28 at 7pm were the birthplace of artistic inclusivity; simultaneously on Facebook and YouTube no matter how dark your skin you could (type “Jackson Street Jazz Walk” in either step into the spotlight.” search bar). Like many concerts, Jackson Street’s 2020 concert was postponed due And, step into the stoplight they shall. to the pandemic, so in turn the concert While the joy of experiencing music live again is still a ways away, what audiences has pivoted into a virtual experience. Since Eugenie Jones photo by Pamela Eaton-Ford its conception in 2013, Jackson Street Jazz can look forward to are two full nights of a bobbing vigorously to the beat, frozen in Walk (JSJW) has featured a diverse array dynamic range of Seattle favorites including a single, perfect, harmonic moment—that of jazz, blues, and alternative artists with performances by Delvon Lamarr Organ brought us together in the first place. And an added commitment to showcasing the Trio, Eugenie Jones Jazz Band, Lewis vs. it’s precisely for moments like these that we talented scope of musicians ever present Lewis Drum-off (featuring three generations: all take the steps necessary to experience in the Emerald City. In addition to JSJW’s David Lewis, D’Vonne Lewis, and Donovon it once again. efforts to preserve and educate people Lewis), Alex Dugdale, Julio Jáuregui, Rafael In recent years under the leadership about the Central District’s roots in jazz Tranquilino, Darrius Willrich Trio, and of Eugenie Jones, JSJW has integrated and its deep, rich history within the Black more. Word even has it that Jones will be a community service component. This community, the fact that the concert will premiering a new original song speaking to year, Jackson Street has chosen to serve coincide with Black History Month this the racial injustices that continue to exist the Central Area Senior Center. In lieu of year, makes it even more impactful. in the entertainment industry, with nods to icons such as Quincy Jones, Ray Charles, admission fees, Jackson Street is requesting It’s no secret that these days Seattle is Ernestine Anderson, and Dave Lewis, who donations, 100% of which will go to this a rapidly changing city, making the work all made names for themselves right here organization’s community meal program that organizations like JSJW have done to in Seattle before sharing their talent with that delivers meals to homebound seniors hold onto the legacy and cultural identity the world. It was moments like these—the during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dona- of the city, even more vital. And at a time familiar energy of a packed club, neck tions can be made via their fiscal sponsor in this country where the threat on Black Shunpike at poweredbyshunpike.org/c/ PBS/a/JacksonStreetJazzWalk. Jackson Street would like to recognize the following sponsors, for which this year’s virtual event could not exist without: Vulcan, Inc., Historic Central Area Arts and Cultural District, Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, Earshot Jazz, Uncle Ike’s, and Shunpike. –RAYNA MATHIS

TUNE IN “Jacksonstreet Jazz Walk” February 27–28 jacksonstreetjazz.org Full schedule and more information available at jacksonstreetjazz.org.

12 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 MEET THE BOARD Ruby Love Continuing our new series, Earshot Jazz would like to introduce you to our board members. They’re a group whose work often goes unnoticed by the broader public, but we value their expertise and their dedication to Earshot Jazz. Each month you’ll meet someone new—in February, please meet Ruby Love. When a friend dance around the room. Jazz is the music organization in Seattle. I will continue to reaches out and of my soul. When you enter my home there push the organization to scrutinize who is asks you to consid- is a large painting of Thelonious Monk. hired, where concerts are marketed, who er following their Whether a vocalist, musician, composer, or are the vendors used, who serves on the lead it is always a appreciator of the art form like me, we are board of directors, volunteers and staff, time that gives me all needed to keep jazz vibrant and alive what venues are used, and who we partner pause. Especially for generations to come. At Earshot Jazz with on projects. All of this and more are when that friend we have worked hard to lift up local jazz of greatest importance to me as I continue is an expert and artists while bringing the many nationally my relationship with Earshot Jazz. As a Ruby Love photo highly respect- acclaimed and awarded jazz greats over the board member, I take responsibility and I by Daniel Sheehan ed person who’s years to Seattle. Audiences have enjoyed encourage people to hold me accountable asking you to consider following them. them at the Earshot Jazz Festival, the Duke to push for the changes in the organiza- Paul Toliver, a revered jazz appreciator, Ellington Sacred Music evening and in so tion that will continue to elevate jazz and collector, promoter, and historian in our many venues and education opportunities position it to be available, enjoyed, and community, extended the invitation to join over the years. One of the things I’m most supported by all. the Earshot board. He said, “Ruby, I need proud of is the collection of newsletters Just like everyone else I miss live per- you to consider taking a leadership role on over the 38-year history of the organization formances of all the arts. I challenge all the Board of Earshot Jazz. I’m relocating that has recently been digitized for future my friends to step up and step out to give out of the area and we need fearless Black reference, retaining the noted history of so generously to the organizations and artists leadership to keep our story alive and bring many great jazz stories. as they continue to struggle through this resources to the organization so that jazz As an organization like so many others, unprecedented time. We will return and thrives in Seattle.” That describes how I Earshot Jazz is taking action on the ne- we will return with greater love and energy came to be in service to Earshot Jazz as a glect and damaging omission of Black and for the arts and for jazz. And remember, member of the Board of Directors. Brown voices leading the art form and the stay jazzed! Now mind you I am not a jazz artist, collector, historian, or producer. Very few in the extraordinary and illustrious jazz community of Seattle would know my name. But that does not preclude the fact that I was raised on jazz in my family by my father and his brothers. From Nat King Cole who stayed at my grandparent’s home because he was not allowed a room at the hotels in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Herbie Hancock who went to Grinnell College and would visit us in Cedar Rapids. In 2013 I said yes and joined the board and have served as chair, vice-chair, and as a member of the Fundraising and Finance Committees. Jazz feeds my soul. It fills me with energy. It relaxes me. It soothes me. It makes me sway, snap my fingers, rock in my chair,

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 13 FOR THE RECORD some, optimistic sentiments of the poems Jay Clayton, Fritz Pauer, she chooses, in this case cummings’ “Love Ed Neumeister Is A Place,” which she speak-sings with gentle conviction over the trio’s exploding 3 For the Road rhythmic polka dots. Likewise, she inhabits MEISTEROMUSIC 0020 cummings’ determination to be “gay like For two decades starting in 1982, improvis- every lark/who lifts his life/from all the ing vocalist Jay Clayton was a major force in dark,” even as Pauer floods the field with Seattle jazz, helping shape a generation of darkness. Clayton’s love of poetry is no forward-thinking students (Briggan Krauss, surprise, given her exquisite ability to draw Brad Shepik, others) at Cornish College, who meaning from a lyric. Henry Mancini’s “Two later took New York’s “downtown” scene For the Road,”—“In the winter we’ll drink by storm. Clayton also taught for years at summer wine”—never sounded like such a Karush’s South Indian sounding “Badada- the University of the Performing Arts in thoughtful invitation. That Clayton delivers dat” and the speedfest, “Fun,” which has Graz, Austria, which set the stage for this this bid in a voice both plummy and lucid, Clayton sounding like a walking bass. Her delightful 2001–02 recording with fellow with flute-perfect intonation, makes it all solo on her tune “Rhythm Waltz” is a tour instructors Ed Neumeister (Vanguard Jazz the more attractive, as does Neumeister’s de force, evoking everything from birds to Orchestra, Joe Lovano) on trombone and chipper muted plunger solo, a la “Tricky Native American chant. But 3 For the Road the late Austrian pianist Fritz Pauer, who Sam” Nanton. “It Could Happen To You” is not all dizzy. On Neumeister’s “Gobblers worked with everyone from Don Byas to makes you think it could, indeed, happen Nob,” Clayton and the trombonist harmo- Friedrich Gulda. to you, with Clayton’s voice bravely exposed nize long, pretty tones before Clayton’s alto The album hopscotches between delicately and Pauer hopping behind her, first with suddenly bursts out, like a star in the night nuanced free improvisations and imagina- one hand, then two. sky. Thanks, Jay, for giving a glimpse of tively sparse arrangements of standards, Clayton is world famous for her innovative that and of a 20-year-old session we might plus settings of a couple of poems by e e scat vocabulary and she shows why on the never have had the pleasure of hearing. cummings. Clayton fully owns the win- trio’s playful rendition of late pianist Larry –PAUL DE BARROS

state. After setting the scene, the group Nelda Swiggett Quintet portrays warmed ice in “Melting.” The Alaska Suite The modal cooker “Burning” depicts SELF-RELEASED extensive fires through Swiggett’s brass and Smedley’s flaring phrases, tumbling into Pianist and composer Nelda Swiggett Kessler’s flashing pyrotechnics. But the group debuted her 9-song Alaska Suite on Earth really gets going on “Homeless,” smartly Day in 2017. Along with her husband, characterized by its odd tempo (7/4) and trombonist Clif Swiggett, the bandleader unrelenting pace, before a great thematic has presented the music in multimedia use of free improvisation’s unsuspected performances that depict the accelerated synergies on “Havoc.” climate change in Alaska. Teaming up with her quintet, including Chris Symer (bass), The last third of the album takes a more Adam Kessler (drums), and Julian Smedley psychological turn. “Hope Springs Eternal” But the Swiggett and her band aren’t (violin), Swiggett recorded the suite in 2018 flows out before a Weather Report-style really silent. Given the scope of the issue, at David Lange’s studio. groove, a framework that later allows for musicians certainly have their expressive moody hits between solos (apparently, hope A set of vibrant lyric pieces for a land- work cut out for them. Still it’s wise of must break ground before it springs). That scape’s sublime degeneration, the result Swiggett to voice, on a spoken word sec- thing with feathers, “First Flight,” follows, is a well-choreographed combination of tion of “Worry,” the wish to go back as a finale that jumps suddenly downwards, Swiggett’s colorful arrangements and her we “strive for answers, make goals, then then builds back up to a cruising montu- group’s collaborative electricity. The pia- relapse into comforts and denial.” Music no figure. Well-tuned together, the band nist establishes the tone with her bluesy can hold a mirror to our nature, but it finishes the “tune without the words” on touch on the opening track, “Alaska,” can also give testimony to this fluid now, a chord (D7 flat four) that truly perches summoning the enormous skyline of the a story far from past. on the soul. –IAN GWIN

14 EARSHOTJAZZ February 2021 NOTES, FROM PAGE 3

Totem Star Artists Mentor Piano Starts Here: Mary Lou Sessions Williams & Thelonious Monk Totem Star, a local nonprofit that works Next in this series is an exploration of the with youth to build life skills in communi- works of jazz piano innovators Mary Lou cation, collaboration, and critical thinking Williams and one of her mentees, Thelonious through their creative pursuits in music Monk. This concert will be livestreamed production and performance, is offering from The Royal Room, on February 17, at Winter Sessions which are available for 7:30pm, PST and is presented by KNKX booking from now through Friday, March and South Hudson Music Project by Live- 19th. These artist mentor sessions are free ConcertsStream. Alex Guilbert, host of the for youth ages 14-25 years old while in Piano Starts Here series, who has been quarantine. To find out about the artist playing and composing music professionally mentors and how to apply for the program as part of the Seattle scene for more than visit Facebook @totemstar or totemstar.org. 20 years, will be joined by Nelda Swiggett, Ryan Burns, and Ray Skjelbred. For details www.jazzinthecity.com visit royalroomseattle.com.

2021 Seattle Jazz as Culture Festival Now in its second year, Jazz In The City, presents this year’s festival as a virtual experience from February 12–14. Jazz as Culture Festival aims to emphasize jazz’s roots in African American culture. The festival will be aired across several platforms including The Seattle Channel and social media sites. For details visit jazzinthecity.com.

Jack Straw Winter Online Workshops Jack Straw Cultural Center continues to offer audio workshops with engineer Tom Stiles, to improve studio skills, or learn more about studio recording and edit- ing. All classes are conducted via Zoom. Classes include Zoom Hosting, Basic Field Recording, Microphone Workshop, and Intro to Digital Audio Editing. Dates are from February 17–March 5. To sign up visit jackstraw.org

Earshot Jazz YouTube Channel Expands With Earshot Jazz’s foray into the digi- tal world of concert programming, we’ve increased the offerings on our YouTube channel. Over the past few weeks we’ve added videos created during the 2020 Earshot Jazz Festival. Recent additions include excerpts from the Jovino Santos Neto Quinteto, and the Eugenie Jones Quintet. Stay tuned for more. Explore the music at Earshot Jazz YouTube

February 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 15 NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221 PAID PERMIT No. 14010 Seattle, WA 98103 SEATTLE, WA Change Service Requested

Benjamin Hunter photo by Daniel Sheehan

IN THIS ISSUE Notes 3 MembershipYour membership helps support all our community programs and concert presentations. It also brings the magazine to your door and Seattle Jazz Artist Relief Fund 3 entitles you to discounts at Earshot events. Become a member today! Thank You! 4 q Individual Membership $60/yr q Household Membership $96/yr Golden Ear Awards Ballot 6 q Patron Membership $150/yr q Sustaining Membership $300/yr Profile: Benjamin Hunter 8 q Discounted Membership $36/yr available for ___ Senior Citizens ___ Students ___ Veterans Preview: Westerlies Fest Other q Preview: 18th Annual Biamp PDX To receive newsletter First Class mail please add $10 q Jazz Festival 11 Additional Donation included for $______NAME

Preview: Jackson Street Jazz Walk 12 ADDRESS

Meet the Board: Ruby Love 13 CITY/STATE/ZIP For the Record: Jay Clayton, Fritz Pauer, PHONE # EMAIL

Ed Neumeister 14 Earshot Jazz is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization. Ask your employer if your companyhas a matching gift program. It can easily double the value of your membership or donation. Mail: Earshot Jazz, 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221, Seattle, WA 98103 For the Record: Nelda Swiggett Quintet 14 Online: earshot.org/membership