Jazzbird Nights: We3 featuring O.M.G. (Our Musical Genre)
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT A true Jazzbird Nights fan favorite, O.M.G. (Our Musical Genre) returns for another unforgettable performance! This all-star group—featuring the dynamic trio We3, Grammy Award-winning bassist Mel Brown, and internationally acclaimed drummer Dowell Davis—delivers a genre-defying experience that blends everything from Bluegrass to jazz, and classical to country. Known for their incredible chemistry…
Kurt Rosenwinkel
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Kurt Rosenwinkel can say more in a few lines … than most guitarists manage over the course of an entire career”— New York Times Immerse yourself in the artistry of Kurt Rosenwinkel, one of the most influential and forward-thinking guitarists in modern jazz. With a career spanning more than three decades, Rosenwinkel has redefined the…
Jazzbird Nights: Running from Bears plays the Music of Charles Mingus
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Adventurous Arizona-native band Running from Bears takes on the venerable music and history of Arizona's greatest jazz bassist and composer, Charles Mingus. The Bears will be covering most of his career, from songs rooted in the work of Duke Ellington, to lush ballads, to hard-driving post bop, and energetic, layered themes with…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: The Local Spirits
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZJazz for the Soul is excited to bring THE LOCAL SPIRITS to you for the first time!
This Phoenix-based instrumental quartet channels Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, Country, Blues, Middle Eastern, Gypsy Jazz, and World Music flavors altogether into a style of their own. Guitar and mandolin twin harmonies are woven into drum-and-bass grooves, creating a genre-defying style that makes this quartet uniquely creative. You’ll want to hear this group! At Jazz for the Soul, improvisation, creativity, and skill are a thing! You won’t be disappointed.
Jazzbird Nights: Maryanne Muglia
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Led by MaryAnne Muglia, a jazz pianist, vocalist, and composer based in Arizona, the ensemble features a dynamic group of Arizona jazz musicians who bring a fresh, collaborative energy to the stage. Drawing inspiration from Duke Ellington, Blossom Dearie, James Moody, Ella Fitzgerald, Esperanza Spalding, and other jazz greats, they bring an…
Jazzbird Nights: Brooke Leigh Davis
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Expect an intimate and heartfelt evening as Brooke Leigh Davis brings her Tribute to life at her Jazzbird Nights debut. Rooted in a rich musical legacy, the show weaves together beloved jazz standards she grew up with—songs once sung by her mother and sister—with deeply personal meaning. Audiences will also hear touches of…
Jazzbird Nights: Francine Reed
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Get ready for an unforgettable night of powerhouse vocals and timeless tunes as the legendary Francine Reed makes her return to the Jazzbird Stage. Known as “The Queen of the Blues,” Francine brings her signature soul, sass, and show-stopping presence to the stage, performing favorites like “Wild Women Don’t Get the Blues,”…
Jazzbird Nights: Mikailo Kasha Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Mikailo Kasha is an award-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader based in Miami, Florida. Currently considered to be among “the top 1% of bassists worldwide”, as stated by Scotty Barnhart of the Count Basie Orchestra, Kasha is a dynamic bandleader, versatile sideman, and a prodigious voice on both upright and electric bass. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ql47FBr_KVc…
Jazzbird Nights: Sugar Thieves
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT The Sugar Thieves bring a powerful blend of American roots music to the stage, fusing blues, country, folk, gospel, rock, and jazz into an electrifying live experience. Based in Phoenix and performing worldwide since 2006, this dynamic group has shared stages with legends like B.B. King and Willie Nelson while building a…
VJC Alumni Band Summer Celebration
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT The Valley Jazz Cooperative’s 10th Anniversary Season concludes with a Summer Celebration from the VJC Alumni Band. Now a much-anticipated highlight on the VJC calendar, the Alumni Band will perform in Ravenscroft Hall under the direction of Russell Schmidt. Again this year, due to ever-growing interest from program alums, our Summer Celebration…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: Mike Vax
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZJazz for the Soul is pleased to present Mike Vax!
To say that Mike Vax is the consummate trumpet player is an understatement. He’s played lead and solo trumpet with the Stan Kenton Orchestra, the Clark Terry Big Bad Band, and the U.S. Navy Show Band. Join us for a fantastic show!
Stars, Stripes & Swing! An Independence Day Celebration
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZThis one-of-a-kind Independence Day celebration goes far beyond the concert stage. Enjoy an evening filled with festive outdoor games, gourmet burgers and hot dogs, signature drinks at the bar, and classic apple pie—all capturing the spirit of an all-American summer celebration. The night culminates in a spectacular big band performance led by Angelo Versace, featuring…
Jazzbird Nights: Sandra Bassett
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience the timeless magic of Motown with Sandra Bassett and her band in a high-energy live performance filled with soulful vocals and iconic hits from legends like Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations. Blending smooth harmonies, heartfelt ballads, and upbeat favorites, this show captures the spirit of the classic…
Jazzbird Nights: Naama Sings – Songs From The Road
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Step into an intimate evening of classic jazz with vocalist Naama Gheber, whose elegant sound and expressive storytelling have made her a standout voice in the New York jazz scene. Inspired by the timeless composers and lyricists of the 1940s and ’50s, Gheber brings sophistication and emotional depth to every performance. Featuring…
Jazzbird Nights: Ari & Cecil Alexander Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Enjoy an intimate and rhythmically vibrant evening with Ari and Cecil Alexander, whose internationally celebrated collaboration blends inventive originals with fresh takes on Great American Songbook classics. With expressive vocals, standout guitar musicality, and dynamic improvisation, the duo and their quartet create both a sophisticated and deeply engaging sound, rooted in jazz…
Jazzbird Nights: Joe Garcia
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an exciting evening of Latin jazz featuring Joe Garcia and his ensemble, inspired by the vibrant legacy of Cal Tjader, the legendary vibraphonist and percussionist who helped revolutionize Latin jazz. Blending jazz traditions with Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms, the performance showcases energetic ensemble playing at its finest.…
Jamie Grace
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“The next potentially great artist to come from the Motor City is the impossible to define Jamie Grace, an extremely promising singer who melds soul and folk into a superbly…
Jazzbird Nights: Raúl Yáñez
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an electrifying evening of Latin jazz featuring Raúl Yáñez and his ensemble. Blending jazz with vibrant styles like salsa, mambo, samba, and cha-cha, the performance showcases dazzling piano work, infectious rhythms, and expressive improvisation. From energetic, danceable grooves to rich melodic moments, this group highlights the passion…
Come Together: A Jazz Tribute to The Beatles with Benjamin Cortez
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ"Benjamin Cortez is a multi-instrumental musician who breathes new life into the classic music of the ’60s and ’70s with his soulful, high-energy performances.” — Michael Kocour, Director of Jazz Studies, Arizona State University Join Phoenix-based artist Benjamin Cortez for Come Together: A Jazz Tribute to The Beatles — a fresh and soulful reimagining of…
Mingus Dynasty
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZCelebrate the powerful legacy of jazz icon Charles Mingus with Mingus Dynasty — the Grammy-winning ensemble dedicated to bringing his groundbreaking music to life for new generations. Founded by Sue Mingus, the group features world-class musicians performing the bold, genre-defying compositions that helped shape modern jazz. Blending hard bop, blues, gospel, swing, and avant-garde influences,…
Jazzbird Nights: Irving Flores Afro Cuban Jazz Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Celebrate the vibrant energy of Latin jazz with pianist Irving Flores in his highly anticipated Jazzbird Nights debut. Joined by his Afro-Cuban trio, Flores delivers an electrifying performance featuring dynamic jazz standards, original compositions, and masterful piano playing inspired by his acclaimed album Armando Mi Conga. ABOUT THE ARTIST Irving Flores is…
Jazzbird Nights: Corcoran Holt Quintet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience an expressive evening of modern jazz with bassist Corcoran Holt, whose dynamic playing blends tradition, improvisation, and contemporary creativity. Through rich musical interplay and emotionally driven storytelling, Holt and his quintet deliver an engaging and deeply immersive performance, honoring the roots of jazz while pushing music forward. ABOUT THE ARTIST Corcoran…
The Music of Buena Vista Social Club With Jaleo
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ**5:30 PM SHOWING** “You can’t help but dance whenever the musicians of long-running local band Jaleo begin performing their colorful and electrifying blend of salsa, cumbia, merengue, bachata, bolero, cha-cha, and Latin jazz.” — Phoenix New Times Step into the timeless sounds of Cuba with Jaleo’s tribute to Buena Vista Social Club — an evening…
The Music of Buena Vista Social Club With Jaleo
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ**8 PM SHOWING** “You can’t help but dance whenever the musicians of long-running local band Jaleo begin performing their colorful and electrifying blend of salsa, cumbia, merengue, bachata, bolero, cha-cha, and Latin jazz.” — Phoenix New Times Step into the timeless sounds of Cuba with Jaleo’s tribute to Buena Vista Social Club — an evening…
Jazzbird Nights: Max Beckman Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Join the Max Beckman Quartet for an engaging evening of contemporary jazz led by acclaimed bassist Max Beckman, whose dynamic style and expressive musicianship create both sophisticated and deeply immersive performances for all who listen. Blending inventive improvisation and modern jazz influences, the performance is sure to be an intimate live music…
Jazzbird Nights: G. Thomas Allen
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Vocalist G. Thomas Allen, whose remarkable range and expressive style bring fresh energy to jazz standards, original works, and soulful genre-blending favorites takes the Jazzbird stage in his Ravenscroft debut. Backed by a talented ensemble, Allen delivers a dynamic and intimate performance filled with rich storytelling and inventive jazz improvisation. ABOUT THE…
Victory Boyd
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“The next potentially great artist to come from the Motor City is the impossible to define Victory Boyd, an extremely promising singer who melds soul and folk into a superbly vulnerable and powerful hybrid of genres.” — Steve Baltin, Hit Parader Experience an evening of soul-stirring music with Grammy Award-winning artist Victory Boyd — a…
Jazzbird Nights: Twin Tenors
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience an energetic evening of jazz as Adam Roberts and Dave Schmidt celebrate the rich legacy of the tenor saxophone through bebop, hard bop, modal jazz, and modern compositions. Featuring expressive improvisation, dynamic interplay, and timeless swing, the performance blends both classic jazz traditions with fresh contemporary energy. ABOUT THE ARTIST Saxophonists…
Jazzbird Nights: Michael Collins Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT What happens when you start with the unforgettable, timeless melodies from Leonard Bernstein's classic musical and re-imagine each one into a new plane of existence, full of joy, hope, mystery, tranquility and groove? West Side Story by the Michael Collins Trio is a wonderful convergence of Michael's incredible arranging and fluency in…
Brandon Heath
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Brandon Heath has crafted a career of introspective storytelling and soaring melodies that continue to resonate deeply with audiences around the world.” — Billboard (billboard.com) Spend an inspiring evening with Dove Award-winning singer-songwriter Brandon Heath, the beloved voice behind songs like Give Me Your Eyes, I’m Not Who I Was, and See Me Through It.…
Jazzbird Nights: Sarah Hanahan Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience the bold energy of rising saxophonist Sarah Hanahan in a thrilling evening of modern jazz inspired by the hard bop tradition. Known for her expressive alto saxophone style and improvisation, Hanahan brings fresh intensity to original compositions and jazz classics alike. The performance blends powerful swing, rich musical interplay, and spontaneous…
Jazzbird Nights: Denny Monce Quintet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Take on an evening of spirited hard bop jazz with trumpeter Dennis Monce, whose soulful sound, swinging rhythms, and expressive improvisation bring classic jazz traditions to life. Blending timeless influences with fresh energy, Monce and his ensemble deliver dynamic solos, rich melodies, and engaging artistry in a vibrant and inviting performance for…
Tony Bennett’s Centennial Celebration with Tommy Gearhart
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“His smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence evoke the timeless elegance of the classic crooners.” — City Sun Times (citysuntimes.com) Celebrate the timeless music and enduring legacy of Tony Bennett with Tony Bennett’s Centennial Celebration featuring Tommy Gearhart. With his rich baritone, effortless swing, and classic style, acclaimed jazz vocalist Tommy Gearhart honors one of…
Jazzbird Nights: Dmitri Matheny Group | Santa’s Got A Brand New Bag
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT SANTA’S GOT A BRAND NEW BAG, A Jazz Celebration of Christmas Classics “Matheny’s warm tone, playful nature and lyrical sensibilities and an extra dimension to this collection of holiday tunes.” —Monterey Herald “An all-star jazz band featuring some of the most accomplished musicians in the western United States” (All About Jazz), the…
A Charlie Brown Christmas with Nicole Pesce
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ**4 PM SHOW** “Recognized by the Arizona Republic as one of the ‘top ten musicians to hear in Phoenix,’ Nicole has performed for Muhammad Ali, Ricky Martin, George Benson, Waylon Jennings, Shaquille O’Neal, Jimmy Carter, The Gypsy Kings, and Brian Setzer.” — The Bash Artist Biography (thebash.com) Celebrate the joy of the season with A…
A Charlie Brown Christmas with Nicole Pesce
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ**7 PM SHOW** “Recognized by the Arizona Republic as one of the ‘top ten musicians to hear in Phoenix,’ Nicole has performed for Muhammad Ali, Ricky Martin, George Benson, Waylon Jennings, Shaquille O’Neal, Jimmy Carter, The Gypsy Kings, and Brian Setzer.” — The Bash Artist Biography (thebash.com) Celebrate the joy of the season with A…
Jazzbird Nights: Paul Cornish
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Enjoy an exciting evening of contemporary jazz with pianist Paul Cornish, whose inventive style blends jazz tradition with influences from hip-hop, gospel, and modern improvisational jazz. Through expressive ensemble interplay, layered harmonies, and dynamic shifts in rhythm and mood, Cornish consistently delivers an emotionally powerful and creatively unpredictable performance, capturing the forward-thinking…
VJC Alumni Band+ Christmas Concert
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“The Valley Jazz Cooperative Alumni Band brings together generations of outstanding musicians to celebrate the enduring spirit and tradition of jazz performance and education.” — Valley Jazz Cooperative (valleyjazz.org) Celebrate the season with the Valley Jazz Cooperative Alumni Band Christmas Concert — a festive evening of big band jazz, holiday favorites, and world-class musicianship performed…