Jazz is more than music—it is a mirror of the American experience. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, this panel discussion explores how jazz has reflected the nation’s values, challenged its contradictions, and helped define its ideals of freedom, expression, and collective voice.

The conversation examines how Charleston and the broader American South helped set the rhythms and cadence of jazz, shaping its evolution from local tradition to global art form. From sacred and social roots to improvisation and innovation, panelists will consider the enduring values jazz has contributed to American culture.

Master drummer Herlin Riley and Director of the Charleston Jazz Academy, Demetrius Doctor, will be joined by Dr. Karen Chandler—co-founder of the Charleston Jazz Initiative, which documents South Carolina’s profound influence on jazz in America and around the world—and Dr. Al Fraser, co-author of To Be, or Not . . . to Bop: Memoirs, the 1979 autobiography of legendary trumpeter John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie, for this dynamic, community-centered conversation. The panel will be moderated by Larry Blumenfeld, Spoleto Festival USA’s Jazz Curator and a contributor to The Wall Street Journal, and will conclude with a performance by the Herlin Riley Quartet.

RHYTHM AND FLOW: America’s Story at 250, Panel Discussion and Performance

Fox Music House

This free, open-to-the-public masterclass is a rare chance to see a legendary artist share his rhythm, stories, and musical insight up close. Musicians, students, and jazz lovers alike will be inspired by this dynamic, interactive session with legendary percussionist Herlin Riley.

Charleston Jazz Festival | Masterclass with Percussionist Herlin Riley

Charleston Jazz Academy

Experience two extraordinary performances honoring the vibrant musical legacies of Charleston and New Orleans. The evening opens with the Gullah Collective, led by CL Baxter, celebrating the Gullah Geechee traditions of the Sea Islands through ancestral rhythms, soulful vocals, and powerful storytelling.

The program continues with legendary drummer Herlin Riley and his Quartet—featuring Oscar Rossignoli on piano, Max Moran on bass, and Julian Lee on tenor and soprano saxophone—as they pay homage to the dynamic rhythms and improvisational spirit that define New Orleans jazz.

Together, these performances illuminate the deep connections between two iconic American jazz traditions, creating an immersive and uplifting celebration of rhythm, culture, and creativity.

EPSG:4326

Charleston Jazz Festival | Herlin Riley Quartet + Gullah Collective

Charleston Music Hall

The New Orleans Groove Masters make their BroadStage debut just in time for Mardi Gras, with an electrifying evening that will transport you to the bayou and have you dancing in your seat! Herlin Riley, Weedie Braimah, and Jason Marsalis are widely regarded as three of the best living percussionists in the world, and they are joined by a stellar ensemble on piano, bass, and saxophone to celebrate the rhythmic traditions of New Orleans. Steeped in both the traditional drumming and contemporary styles of the region, the Groove Masters perform a dynamic collection of original compositions and beloved repertoire from the musical canon of the Crescent City.

New Orleans Groove Masters

The Broad Stage

Emmet's Place Miami Live - 2026

University of Miami

Herlin Riley is a renowned jazz drummer, composer, and educator celebrated for his mastery of rhythm and his deep roots in New Orleans’ musical traditions. Born in New Orleans,Riley grew up immersed in the city's vibrant culture and its storied musical heritage. He began playing drums at the age of three and later developed his craft as a multi-instrumentalist, learning the trumpet before fully committing to the drums. After studying music at Southern University, Riley quickly established himself as a sought-after drummer, joining jazz legends like Ahmad Jamal, George Benson, and Harry Connick Jr. His skillful blending of traditional New Orleans rhythms with modern jazz elements has made him a defining figure in contemporary jazz.

Herlin Riley Quartet

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

Hart Plaza

Titled “Give the Drummer Some,” this four-night series curated by the eminent Bay Area pianist Joe Warner brings an amazing group of the world’s great drummers to the Joe Henderson Lab for intimate performances with Warner and master bassist Tarus Mateen, celebrated for his work with Jason Moran’s omnivorous trio The Bandwagon.

Give the Drummer Some: Herlin Riley

SFJAZZ Center

New Orleans’ most famous call to action rings true when The Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra returns with a Mardi-Gras-meets-jazz celebration featuring the 19-piece big band, drummer Herlin Riley, and special guest soloists. This program celebrates all that makes a party in the Crescent City remarkable with contemporary second-line music and new arrangements of classic jazz songs.

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler — A Trip To New Orleans

Irvine Barclay Theatre

The New Orleans Groove Masters were created in 2017 for a concert for a performance at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The concert was a great success and with this enthusiasm a band was born. This band features three master drummers performing on percussion, tambourine, vibraphones, and vocals accompanied by piano, bass, and saxophone.

Herlin Riley

Events

Past events

Apr 21, 2026

RHYTHM AND FLOW: America’s Story at 250, Panel Discussion and Performance · Charleston Jazz

Apr 20, 2026

Charleston Jazz Festival | Masterclass with Percussionist Herlin Riley · Charleston Jazz

About

Herlin Riley hasn't added a bio