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 […]

Abinnet Berhanu’s Ahndenet (Unity) pays respect to Ethiopian folk, fusion and pop music by exploring the rich instrumental and vocal across different regions of Ethiopia. Inspired by his culturally rich upbringing in everything Ethiopian history, music and politics, composer and drummer Abinnet Berhanu created Ahndenet as a modern take on Ethiopian ‘culture house’ music groups that represent […]

Debbie Briggs Vintage Jazz features professional Twin Cities vocalist Debbie Briggs, best known for her rich resonant vocals and warm interpretations of The Great American Songbook, shining a light on the music 1920s-1960s. Tim Kirchhof – guitar/piano Steve Pikal – bass

Atlantis Quartet has been a driving force in the Twin Cities’ modern jazz scene since its formation in 2006. Featuring four of Minnesota’s most dynamic improvisers—saxophonist Brandon Wozniak, guitarist Zacc Harris, bassist Chris Bates, and drummer Pete Hennig—the group crafts an adventurous yet accessible sound that pushes the boundaries of the jazz idiom. Their collective synergy results in a […]

Dave Graf started playing trombone in the 4th grade and just kept going with it. One of the most versatile and in-demand trombonists in the Twin Cities, Dave has worked in a wide range of musical settings. His jazz resume includes performances with Slide Hampton, Herbie Lewis, Jack McDuff, Charli Persip and Superband, the Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin Orchestra, and […]

Hanson/Hirsh/Clowser shape musical narratives in real time. With Nathan Hanson on saxophone, Steve Hirsh on drums, and Ross Clowser on guitar, the trio invites their audience into a shared experience of creation, discovery, and beauty. Nathan Hanson: “Lithe and soaring, engaging in judicious honk ‘n’ splatter” (New York City Jazz Record), Nathan Hanson makes music that invites listeners to stand outside […]

Brian Grivna began performing at age 12 as Young Artist clarinet soloist with the Minnesota Orchestra.  He added saxophone and flute the following year, and by age 15 was subbing for his teacher in commercial dance bands.  After receiving his BA in English Literature from Dartmouth College, he worked in jazz, commercial and theater music […]

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 […]