This time on the program - a focus on singers and connections - we visit with vocalist, educator and composer Ellie Martin, who while she calls Toledo home, has great affection for Pittsburgh and many of its influences and charms. Ellie has a new release just out, and will be visiting Con Alma May 23rd and the Westylvania Jazz and Blues Festival in Indiana May 24th.
We also take a glimpse at folks coming up on the scene this month - including Kenny Blake, Etta Cox and Craig Davis for Legends of Pittsburgh Jazz Brunch, Sunday May 18 at City Winery (a day after Tony Campbell has a jazz tribute to Tina Turner and Patti Labelle at City Winery, too).
There’s much more live and in person music on the Jazz Central Calendar, showing the breadth and depth of talent in the region and coming to play, too.
That includes the Westylvania jazz and blues festival in Jimmy Stewart’s hometown (Indiana) with Roger Humphries’ RH Factor, pianist Tom Roberts, trumpeter James Moore and the aforementioned Ellie Martin, plus notables like Reggie Watkins and Hugo Cruz with club dates and festival appearances.
And Roger Humphries’ Annual River Boat Ride returns to the Burg, June 29th to the Gateway Clipper Fleet as a combination jazz party and scholarship fundraiser.
A lot to keep up with on the Scene!
Ellie Martin
