Anat Cohen Quartetinho
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Anat does what all authentic musicians do: She tells stories from her own experiences that are so deeply felt that they are very likely to connect listeners to their own dreams, desires, and longings.” — Nat Hentoff Anat Cohen, the acclaimed clarinetist and saxophonist, brings her signature mix of jazz, soul, and global rhythms to…
Jazzbird Nights: Devin Daniels Group
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Alto saxophonist Devin Daniels is one of Los Angeles’ most distinctive and versatile rising voices in jazz. An Inglewood native, Daniels’ dynamic sound and expressive tone have led him to perform with artists including Gerald Clayton, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, John Beasley, and Jamael Dean. In 2023, he was invited by Herbie Hancock to…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: ZAZU West
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZZAZU West is Phoenix's premier ensemble dedicated to Gypsy Jazz, the style devoted to the legacy of the influential jazz guitar legend, Django Reinhardt. Whether you call it Gypsy Jazz, Jazz Manouche, or French Swing, the sound is infectious and unmistakably Django.
Grammy Night at Ravenscroft Featuring Bill Cunliffe
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Bill Cunliffe is one of the great players of our time — his music swings, it sings, and it’s full of soul.” — Clark Terry Celebrate our 2nd Annual Grammy Night at Ravenscroft in style with Grammy Award–winning pianist and jazz legend Bill Cunliffe. Known for his masterful blend of swing, soul, and modern sophistication,…
VJC Winter Performance
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT A pair of Valley Jazz Cooperative student ensembles share the stage for the opening VJC concert of the year. The VJC Winter Performance will showcase Cerulean (a combo) and Indigo (a big band) on the Ravenscroft Hall stage. VJC Founder Russell Schmidt leads both groups in a matinee event that marks the…
Jazzbird Nights: Dennis Rowland
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Vocalist Dennis Rowland is a beloved figure in the world of jazz and theater, known for his smooth baritone voice and magnetic stage presence. A Detroit native now based in Phoenix, Rowland gained international acclaim as the voice of the legendary Count Basie Orchestra from 1977 to 1984, performing alongside icons like…
Jazzbird Nights: Alyssa Allgood Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Named a “Rising Star Female Vocalist” in the 2024 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll, vocalist and composer Alyssa Allgood stands out as a bold and compelling voice in the modern jazz landscape. Described as “assured and daring” by Downbeat and acknowledged for her “force, clarity and jazz integrity” by the New York City…
Jazzbird Nights: James Fernando Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Hailed as a “prodigiously gifted composer and virtuoso pianist,” James Fernando leads his dynamic Philly-based jazz trio with a refreshing take on the piano trio format. Known for their deep musical chemistry and engaging interplay, the trio crafts a joyful and exhilarating journey for listeners. Steeped in the tradition of jazz greats,…
Kings Return
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Their sound is as rich as velvet and as pure as sunlight through stained glass.” — Quincy Jones Experience the captivating sound of Kings Return, the Dallas-based a cappella quartet redefining vocal harmony with their seamless blend of gospel, jazz, R&B, classical, and pop influences in their return to the Ravenscroft stage. Formed in 2016…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: Sandra Bassett & Friends
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZSandra Bassett & Friends return to Jazz for the Soul with an evening of unforgettable jazz, soul, gospel, and R&B. Known for her powerhouse vocals and commanding stage presence, Sandra blends timeless classics with modern flair, creating a performance that is both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition.
Jazzbird Nights: Kelly Green Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Kelly Green is a dynamic New York City–based pianist, vocalist, and composer hailed as “well worth discovering” by the NYC Jazz Record. A true triple threat, she has performed alongside jazz greats such as Christian McBride, George Coleman, and Billy Hart, captivating audiences with her soulful artistry and inventive spirit. Green has…
Jazzbird Nights: Sarah Tolar
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Acclaimed vocalist Sarah Tolar and trumpet virtuoso Jason Carder join forces to celebrate one of jazz’s most iconic collaborations — the 1955 album Sarah Vaughan with Clifford Brown. Hailed as Vaughan’s favorite recording session and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, the album remains a timeless masterpiece of vocal…
VJC Blue Hues
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT The Valley Jazz Cooperative’s 10th Anniversary Season continues with the Blue Hues, featuring the Indigo Big Band and Cerulean Combo (both under the direction of Russell Schmidt) and the Sapphire Big Band (under the direction of Paul Brewer). This is the first VJC event of the year to feature all three student…
Jazzbird Nights: Edu Ribeiro Brazilian Jazz Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience the exhilarating sounds of Edu Ribeiro, a two-time Grammy Award–winning drummer and one of Brazil’s most electrifying musical forces. Hailing from SĂŁo Paulo, Ribeiro brings his world-renowned trio to celebrate the release of their latest album, Caipora—a vibrant collection of original Brazilian jazz compositions penned by the band’s members. With infectious…
Jazzbird Nights: Mary Petrich
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Mary Petrich is a dynamic saxophonist, composer, and educator whose passion for creativity and improvisation has shaped a uniquely expressive voice in both jazz and classical music. As director of the Women’s Jazz Initiative at The Nash and founder of Nash Jazz DivAZ, she champions music education and empowerment for young women…
Dom Moio & Joe LaBarbera
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZExperience an extraordinary evening of rhythm and artistry with Dom Moio and Joe LaBarbera, two of jazz’s most respected drummers. Moio, a cornerstone of Arizona’s jazz scene and longtime ASU faculty member, is celebrated for his versatility and deep command of Latin and straight-ahead jazz styles. LaBarbera, best known for his work with the legendary…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: Ted Bouras Organ Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZAs if this dynamic Jazz Organ trio wasn’t enough, they've added sax player extraordinaire Andrew Gross to the mix, creating a unique and exciting blend of talents that takes their groove to the next level. This trio has been described as “Purveyors of deep grooves, soulful sounds, and toe-tappin' fun.” Come and bring a friend!
Jazzbird Nights: VJC Senior Showcase featuring Jordan Pettay
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT The annual VJC Senior Showcase event features the creative gifts of outstanding high school seniors from MSW’s Valley Jazz Cooperative educational program. During the first set, select seniors will have the opportunity to perform jazz standards alongside guest artist Jordan Pettay, a NYC-based jazz saxophonist, backed by leading area jazz musicians. During…
Chamber @ Ravenscroft: Restless Passions
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Join us for Restless Passions, a stirring evening of chamber music featuring powerfully expressive works that explore the depths of longing, intensity, and introspection. At the heart of the program is the Piano Quartet No. 2 in G minor by Gabriel FaurĂ©, a late-Romantic masterpiece brimming with emotional turbulence and radiant lyricism.…
Jazzbird Nights: Ashley Pezzotti Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Ashley Pezzotti is a rising star in the New York jazz scene, blending the elegance, rhythmic sophistication, and infectious joy of the great jazz vocalists who came before her. Just in her 20s, Pezzotti has already made her mark, touring and recording with jazz legends like Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at…
Jazzbird Nights: Jeff Libman Trio
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Jeff Libman is “a sensitive guitarist with a graceful, melodic turn to his flowing improvisations” (Jazz Journal), and a cornerstone of the Phoenix jazz community since 2004. A Clinical Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at Arizona State University and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at The Nash, Libman is deeply…
Caity Gyorgy
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ“Canadian jazz singer Caity Gyorgy, in addition to having a warm voice and swinging phrasing, is a skilled songwriter whose originals sound as if they are from the 1950s with more modern lyrics.” — Scott Yanow Join us for a fantastic night of jazz vocals with Caity Gyorgy, one of today’s most exciting young voices…
Jazzbird Nights: Chris Ross Corner Pocket Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience the timeless music of the legendary Ray Brown Trio—a tribute to one of jazz’s most influential bassists and bandleaders. Ray Brown was not only a master of the upright bass, but also a visionary musician, composer, and innovator whose impact on jazz remains unmatched. This performance celebrates his legacy with fresh…
Jazzbird Nights: Matt Lennex and the Giants of Jazz
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Matt Lennex and the Giants of Jazz make their Ravenscroft debut following a string of sold-out performances across the Valley. Led by 6’9” trombonist Matt Lennex, this powerhouse ensemble lives up to its name—bringing together some of the finest musicians in the Phoenix jazz scene for an unforgettable night of big sound…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: Angelo Versace Quartet
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZJazz for the Soul is excited to present the Angelo Versace Quartet! Angelo has been with us multiple times and is a crowd favorite. Tonight, he brings his quartet of AZ all-stars, including Jason Carder - trumpet, Dom Moio - drums, and Scott Black - bass. Classic jazz at its finest, and will it swing? Absolutely!! Don’t miss this show, and bring your friends.
Jazzbird Nights: Kris Johnson
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Kris Johnson is a trumpeter, composer, and educator based in Detroit. With contributions to six GRAMMY-nominated albums as a trumpeter and arranger, including the 2024 GRAMMY-winning Basie Swings the Blues by the Count Basie Orchestra, Kris is a recognized force in the industry. His career highlights include touring globally as a member…
VJC Spotlight Concert featuring Kris Johnson
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT The ensembles of the Valley Jazz Cooperative’s main educational program (grades 8-12) share the Ravenscroft Hall stage for a final time this season. And the annual VJC Spotlight Concert is once more a fundraising event, presented in cooperation with MSW Ministries’ Music on a Mission outreach. 100% of all proceeds and donations…
Jazzbird Nights: Marcos Crego
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Born in Havana, Cuba, JosĂ© Marcos Crego Tamayo is a world-class pianist, composer, and producer whose vibrant career bridges Afro-Cuban roots and contemporary jazz. A graduate of the Amadeo Roldán Music School and son of legendary trumpeter JosĂ© Miguel Crego “El Greco,” Tamayo has performed with renowned groups including Klimax, Los Dan,…
Chamber @ Ravenscroft: The Power of Six
Ravenscroft Hall 8445 E Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience the lush textures and sweeping lyricism of The Power of Six, an unforgettable evening of chamber music featuring two masterful string sextets that showcase the full emotional and sonic depth of six instruments in perfect conversation. The program opens with Reinhold Glière’s infrequently performed Sextet No. 3 in C Major, a…
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: Adam Roberts
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Experience an evening with saxophonist Adam Roberts, one of Arizona’s most versatile and dynamic musicians. Blending jazz, funk, rock, and classical influences, Roberts brings a bold and expressive sound to the stage. Known for his work with artists like Michael BublĂ©, Idina Menzel, and George Russell, Adam delivers performances that are both…
JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: 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,…
Jazzbird Nights: Rob Moore & Friends
Jazzbird 8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZWHAT TO EXPECT Get ready to swing as Rob Moore & Friends take you on a journey through the hard bop era and beyond. From fiery solos to soulful ballads,…
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…
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…
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…