October has many delights in Pittsburgh beyond pumpkins, costumes and candy - the jazz scene continues to be wide and varied with many great opportunities to hear music at its highest level.
One of those high level performers is vocalist, songwriter and pianist (yes, she’s fabulous), Ann Hampton Calloway. Ann has played Pittsburgh numerous times over the years, at MCG Jazz and with the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra, and now, her latest journey is in a one-woman show that will span a wide range of her musical joys - including her own songs, plus music from the likes of Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon and more. We spoke with Ann about music and the plans for the Sunday night, October 13th show at City Winery in the Strip - and it should prove to be a joyful, meaningful, diverse and interactive experience.
Plus on Friday and Saturday, the 18th and 19th, noted composer and pianist Amina Figarova brings her Sextet and the World Orphan Choir with “Suite for Africa” to MCG Jazz for two shows over the two nights.
Also, the 19th Annual Black Politics Empowerment Project brings B-PEP Jazz back the the Heinz History Center in the Strip on Monday, October 21st for an evening of celebration of democracy with Roger Humphries and the RH Factor, the Tim Stevens Project and more than 70 other performers.
Unfortunately, the CD launch concert event for Reggie Watkins for his newest release, RIVERS - Friday, October 18th at the Music Hall of the Carnegie in Carnegie HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO IMPACTS ON THE SHOW BY HURRICANES HELENE AND MILTON.
Last Saturday, MCG Jazz celebrated with Pittsburgh Jazz Legends Roger Humphries, Harry Clark, Nelson Harrison, Etta Cox, Judge Watson, and several others to start season 38 with the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and Artist in Residence, pianist Ray Angry. MCG Jazz also inducted our six new Jazz Legends - Mike Tomaro, Eric Susoeff, Eric Johnson, Marva Josie, Tony Campbell, and (posthumously) George Edward Heid.
Finally, Friday at 1pm, October 18th - there will be a Celebration of Life event at Emmanuel Episcopal Church on the Northside for our recently departed friend and broadcasting colleague Evelynn Hawkins. There will be music and remarks and much deserved remembrance of our longtime colleague, friend, radio host and scholar.
The Scene - Thursday at 6pm, Friday and Saturday at noon, Sunday afternoon at 5.
Ann Hampton Calloway
Amina Figarova and the World Orphan Choir
