Image Source: worldmusicseries.com
It may be cold outside, but the artists at MCG Jazz are just warming up. A jazz series packed with talented artists sponsored by UPMC Health Plan, NOVA Chemicals, BNY Mellon and RAD Works Here starts next week.
MCG Jazz was founded by Bill Strickland and has been catering to jazz lovers since 1987. The mission of MCG Jazz is to “preserve, present and promote jazz. Through our performances, we strengthen the long time Pittsburgh jazz community and contribute to the overall cultural and artistic diversity of the region.”
The series is starting with A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald at the MCG Jazz Hall on Saturday, February 27th at 8 pm and Sunday, February 28th at 2:30 pm. The concert has MCG Jazz with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra under the direction of David N. Baker. The show also features Kim Nazarian, co-founder of New York Voices.
Globally-known jazz pianist and composer McCoy Tyrner will be at the MCG Jazz Hall on Saturday, March 13th at 7 pm and 9:30 pm. Tyrner is known for his blues-style piano and has been performing for more than 50 years.
The Lionel Loueke Trio and the Gretchen Parlato Band will be performing on Friday, March 26th at 7 pm and 9:30 pm. Parlato is known for her powerful voice and her deep connection to her music while she sings. Loueke, a vocalist and jazz guitarist, uses synthesizers and guitar chords to enhance his music.
BNY Mellon Jazz presents Ramsey Lewis on Friday, May 14th at 8 pm. This concert is a special event to benefit the MCG Jazz Archive. Lewis is an accomplished pianist and composer with a love for gospel, classical and jazz music.
Be sure to order your tickets in advance. The McCoy Tyrner Quartet’s 7 pm show is already sold out!
