Jazz Luminaries and Rising Stars to Grace Bay Area Stages in 2024

As the political arena heats up with the 2024 presidential election, jazz musicians are playing a vital role. Through their music, they provide a unique lens to bring people together, transcending differences and uniting listeners with the universal language of jazz. If you're looking to refresh your soul with enchanting melodies that stimulate joy and reflection, the Bay Area's upcoming jazz concerts are the perfect retreat.

Blue Note's 85th Anniversary Celebration

Blue Note Records, a seminal figure in jazz's history since its founding by two German immigrants in 1939, is heralding its 85th year. The label has been through ups and downs but has recently seen a resurgence in its glory. Commemorating this anniversary is a 35-date tour featuring a dazzling lineup of Blue Note artists. The tour is directed by the talented 39-year-old pianist Gerald Clayton, with performances from prominent musicians such as alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins, vibraphonist Joel Ross, and drummer Kendrick Scott. Joining them is bassist Matt Brewer, also a member of the SFJAZZ Collective. The tour is making its way to less conventional jazz spots, such as Cornerstone in Berkeley, as well as established jazz venues like the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz.

Highlight on Sullivan Fortner Trio

Sullivan Fortner, the pianist applauded widely by his peers, recently accentuated his career with his latest album 'Solo Game.' He returns to the Bay Area with his captivating trio, which includes bassist Tyrone Allen and drummer Kayvon Gordon. Sullivan is known for his rich melding of jazz styles that speak of elegance and soul. He's scheduled to perform at Piedmont Piano Company in Oakland and at the Bach Dancing and Dynamite Society in Half Moon Bay. In addition to his trio's gigs, he will be performing alongside the renowned vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant.

Chucho Valdés & Irakere 50 - A Cuban Jazz Virtuoso

Chucho Valdés, the 82-year-old Cuban piano virtuoso, continues to push musical boundaries with his band Irakere, mixing Cuban rhythms, jazz harmonies, with rock and funk elements. Valdés has cultivated strong connections with SFJAZZ, and his performances at Miner Auditorium are eagerly awaited events. Valdés and the latest iteration of Irakere, which includes top Cuban talent, will be providing a thrilling experience across four nights, guaranteed to get audiences on their feet.

Rising Ensemble DoosTrio

DoosTrio, a fresh group that merges classical expertise with cross-cultural experimentation, is a reflection of close friendships and adventurous musicianship. Composed of Iranian Kurdish kamancheh virtuoso Kayhan Kalhor, master Indian tabla player Sandeep Das, and pipa expert Wu Man from China, the trio is scheduled for a sole performance in California at Stanford University's Bing Concert Hall.

Exploring Roots with Nathalie Joachim

Nathalie Joachim, a skilled flutist, vocalist, and electronics artist, is set to present her second album 'Ki moun ou ye' at the Zellerbach Playhouse at UC Berkeley. Her performance weaves together a variety of sounds and textures, inspired by her Haitian heritage, and features English and Haitian Kreyòl languages. The project is an interdisciplinary piece that involves a seven-member chamber ensemble and choreography by Chanel DaSilva.

jazz, tour, BayArea