Now in the seventh decade of his professional life, Herbie Hancock remains where he has always been: at the forefront of world culture, technology, business and music. Herbie Hancock has been an integral part of every popular music movement since the 1960s. As a member of the Miles Davis Quintet that pioneered a groundbreaking sound in jazz, he also developed new approaches on his own recordings, followed by his work in the 70s — with record-breaking albums such as “Headhunters” — that combined electric jazz with funk and rock in an innovative style that continues to influence contemporary music. “Rockit” and “Future Shock” marked Hancock's foray into electronic dance sounds; during the same period he also continued to work in an acoustic setting with V.S.O.P.

Hancock received an Academy Award for his Round Midnight film score and 14 Grammy Awards, including Album Of The Year for “River: The Joni Letters,” and two 2011 Grammy Awards for the globally collaborative CD, “The Imagine Project.”

Hancock serves as Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association and as Institute Chairman of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. In 2011 Hancock was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, and in December of 2013, received a Kennedy Center Honor. His memoir, Herbie Hancock: Possibilities, was published by Viking in 2014, and in February 2016 he was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

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Herbie Hancock

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Cyrus Chestnut will perform with the UMKC Small Ensembles featuring his original music as well as other jazz standards and more.

Cyrus Chestnut in concert with UMKC Jazz

Folly Theater

Pat Metheny was born in Kansas City in 1954. Starting on trumpet at the age of 8, Metheny switched to guitar at age 12. By the age of 15, he was working regularly with the best jazz musicians in Kansas City, receiving valuable on-the-bandstand experience at an unusually young age.

Metheny first burst onto the international jazz scene in 1974. The young Missouri native displayed his soon-to-become trademarked playing style, which blended the loose and flexible articulation customarily reserved for horn players with an advanced rhythmic and harmonic sensibility - a way of playing and improvising that was modern in conception but grounded deeply in the jazz tradition of melody, swing and the blues. With the release of his first album, Bright Size Life (1975), he reinvented the traditional "jazz guitar" sound for a new generation of players.

Pat Metheny, Side-Eye III+

Experience musical genius like never before as Acclaimed Grammy Award-winning mandolinist, singer, songwriter, composer, and MacArthur Fellow recipient of the prestigious “Genius Grant," Chris Thile joins the Kansas City Symphony for one unforgettable evening. A founding member of the highly influential string bands Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek, Thile is praised by The Guardian as "that rare being: an all-round musician,” and hailed by NPR as a "genre-defying musical genius." His virtuosity, storytelling and ability to blend genres will captivate you, making this a performance you won’t want to miss.

Chris Thile with The Kansas City Symphony

The Shame Disco. DJ Reform94 throws a youth disco for adults, with the best/worst music from the nineties.

Reform94

Union Scene

A free, family-friendly street dance on the west side of the Stadium of Fire site, featuring a Miner Music DJ spinning tunes from across the decades, held after the fireworks on Independence Day.

Street Dance: Post-Stadium of Fire Celebration

LaVell Edwards Stadium

Closing reading of the Queer Literature Festival Munich with Sophia Merwald, moderated by Franziska Setare Koohestani. Reading from the debut novel "Sperrgut".

Closing Reading: Sophia Merwald "Sperrgut"

Gasteig HP8

Podcast link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZ_ZQW5C2pw&amp;t=2s

The Artelize Podcast Presenting Will Shutes: 'Bring it down out of the clouds to human being level'

Lakecia Benjamin is a 5x GRAMMY nominated New York-based saxophonist, arranger, composer, and educator. Her music offers a unique meld of R&B, several strains of jazz, and funk. Her warm, resonant tone — that has been compared to Johnny Hodges — lends itself to any form of music she chooses to play. In addition to honing her chops early with Clark Terry and later Terri Lyne Carrington, she is also a noted accompanist for vocalists — among them Gregory Porter and Theo Crocker. Retox, her 2012 leader debut, offered a beat-conscious set of soul and funk covers and originals produced by Ben Kane. Benjamin played on “Right on Brotha,” the closing track from Robert Glasper’s Everything’s Beautiful in 2018, a collection of reimagined Miles Davis tracks. Her sophomore date, Rise Up for Ropeadope, contained a Prince-inspired series of original jazz-funk jams. In 2020, she released Pursuance: The Coltranes. The widely acclaimed set contained six tunes each by Alice and John Coltrane, with Benjamin leading a large cast that included former Coltrane sideman Reggie Workman. In 2023 she returned with the star-studded Phoenix. Produced by Carrington, it wed jazz, funky soul, R&B, and hip-hop with an all-star cast. The album brought upon three GRAMMY nominations and universal praise.

Lakecia Benjamin

Cheyenne Jackson is a GRAMMY and Emmy-nominated actor, singer, and songwriter known for his versatile work across Broadway, television, film, and concert stages. He received a GRAMMY nomination for his collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony as Tony in West Side Story conducted by the legendary Michael Tilson Thomas.

Cheyenne Jackson

We are transporting the already transcendent Folly Theater to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Through sight and sound, and Brenna’s captivating voice, this is one time machine trip to remember!We are transporting the already transcendent Folly Theater to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Through sight and sound, and Brenna’s captivating voice, this is one time machine trip to remember!

Glamour of Old Hollywood Concert featuring vocalist and Kansas City native Brenna Whitaker

The 13th Annual Kansas City Burlesque Festival, highlighting burlesque and variety performers, from local favorites, to across the nation!

13th Annual Kansas City Burlesque Festival

Acclaimed jazz pianist and composer Helen Sung meets Kansas City’s own Bach Aria Soloists for a world premiere performance! BAS commissioned Sung to compose a work celebrating Bach as the OG improviser, the foundations of jazz. Join us for a one-of-a-kind collaborative evening and “piano playing at a quite unbelievably jaw-dropping level” (London Jazz News).

Helen Sung Meets Bach Aria Soloists

Experience an extraordinary musical journey with saxophonist Branford Marsalis, a towering figure in contemporary music. As an NEA Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner, and Tony Award nominee, Marsalis has demonstrated his versatility across a wide array of musical genres. Whether performing concertos with symphony orchestras or collaborating with members of the Grateful Dead, his artistry remains unparalleled. At the heart of his musical endeavors lies the Branford Marsalis Quartet, a group that has maintained its core lineup for over three decades. This celebrated ensemble is renowned for its uncompromising interpretations of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics.

The Quartet's recent works, including the Grammy-nominated albums "Upward Spiral" and "The Secret Between the Shadow and the Soul," showcase their ability to seamlessly integrate guest artists and explore a wide emotional and melodic range. Critics have lauded their live performances as casually confident, professional, cerebral, and supercharged with energy. The Branford Marsalis Quartet embodies these qualities and more, delivering a performance that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally captivating. Join us for an evening that promises to be a highlight in the world of jazz, featuring one of its most influential and revered figures.

An Evening with Branford Marsalis

The GRAMMY Award® winning vocal supergroup, säje (rhymes with “beige”), is the brainchild of vocalist/composers Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick, and Erin Bentlage. Born out of close friendship and deep admiration, these world-renowned artists, composers, and arrangers have come together to explore, create, and celebrate the music that moves them. As individuals, each artist has crafted their own notable solo career, and now are delighted to bring their collective voices to this union, traversing a vast array of compelling original material, beloved jazz standards, and contemporary re-imaginings (The Bad Plus, YEBBA, Björk, etc). After debuting an inspiring and energized set at the 2020 Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans, säje went on to tour multiple jazz festivals and clubs from January to March. During quarantine, säje received their first GRAMMY® nomination, for their composition “Desert Song” in the Best Arrangement Instruments and Vocals category. They were awarded the John Lennon Songwriting Contest Grand Prize Award for their second composition “Wisteria”, as well as their first Jazz Journalists Association Award Nomination for “Best Vocal Jazz Group”. The collective also recently received gracious support for their continued work through the Chamber Music of America New Jazz Works grant, the Super Patron Grant, the Jazz Road Creative Residencies grant, and the USC Visions + Voices grant. Their highly anticipated debut album was released in August of 2023, featuring new original work and compelling covers, highlighting collaborations with artists Jacob Collier, Terri Lyne Carrington, Ambrose Akinmusire, and more. The album was received  to critical acclaim, and wide reception, landing a #2 spot on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart, and peaking at #4 on the iTunes Jazz Chart. The group won their first GRAMMY Award® for their arrangement of “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning” in collaboration with their friend Jacob Collier. The union of säje is rooted in the tradition of joy, curiosity, lush harmony, heart-felt expression, and profound sisterhood.

säje

The Yellowjackets, a cornerstone of the jazz world, are set to perform as part of the Folly Jazz Series. With a rich history spanning over 35 years, the band has recorded 22 albums, received 17 Grammy nominations, and won 2, all while performing countless sold-out tours and earning worldwide critical acclaim. Originally formed in the late 1970s as the backup band for guitarist Robben Ford, the Yellowjackets quickly evolved into a trio featuring Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, and Ricky Lawson. The addition of Bob Mintzer further solidified their status as one of jazz’s most influential groups. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, the band has consistently maintained an extraordinarily high level of musicianship. The current lineup includes Russell Ferrante, William Kennedy, Bob Mintzer, and the newest member, Australian bass player Dane Alderson, whose rhythmic sensibility and natural groove bring a fresh energy to the ensemble. Their latest album, "Raising Our Voice," released on Mack Avenue Records, features special guest vocalist Luciana Souza, adding another layer of depth to their already dynamic sound. The Yellowjackets continue to captivate audiences with their innovative approach to jazz, blending traditional elements with contemporary influences to create a sound that is both timeless and forward-thinking.

Yellowjackets

Experience an evening of enchanting jazz at the Folly Theater with "Some Enchanted Evening," featuring the extraordinary talents of Benny Benack III and Stella Cole. Benny Benack III, an Emmy-nominated trumpeter and singer, brings a unique blend of fiery trumpet playing and expressive vocal delivery. His mastery of the post-bop trumpet vernacular and his showmanship have earned him recognition as a Rising Star in both trumpet and male vocals by the Downbeat Critics Poll. Benny's performances are a thrilling mix of standards and original compositions, showcasing his virtuosity and captivating stage presence.

Joining him is the charismatic Stella Cole, whose performances transport audiences back in time with her rich tone and extraordinary vocal control. Stella's ability to interpret classics from the Great American Songbook with a personal and vulnerable touch has garnered her a massive following and critical acclaim. Her debut recording features a collection of timeless songs, arranged by Grammy-winner Alan Broadbent, and highlights her talent for connecting with listeners of all ages.

The evening also features the dynamic tap dance of Jabu Graybeal, whose impressive career includes performances with renowned companies and appearances in film and television. Accompanying these artists are Liya Grigoryan on piano, Russell Hall on bass, Joe Peri on drums, and Jarien Jamanila on saxophone, each bringing their own exceptional artistry to the stage. This event promises a memorable celebration of jazz, blending tradition with contemporary flair.

Some Enchanted Evening featuring Benny Benack III and Stella Cole

The Folly Theater is thrilled to welcome back hometown favorite Karrin Allyson as part of its renowned Jazz Series. Allyson, a celebrated vocalist, pianist, and composer, will be performing material from her latest release, "A Kiss for Brazil." This album, released by Origin Records, is a continuation of her musical exploration of Brazilian sounds, featuring collaborations with Brazilian singer and guitarist Rosa Passos. The album includes a mix of classic Brazilian tunes and original compositions, showcasing Allyson's versatility and deep connection to the genre. Notable tracks include "O Grande Amor," where Allyson's velvet alto complements Passos' contralto, and "Month of March in Salvador Dunas," a lively duet that highlights their rhythmic prowess and scat exchanges. Allyson's performance will also feature an ensemble of all-star accompanists, including Vitor Gonçalves on piano, Rhodes, and accordion, Yotam Silberstein on guitar, Harvie S on bass, and Rafael Barata on drums. This event marks the opening performance of the longest-running Jazz Series in Kansas City, promising an evening of exceptional music and artistry.

Karrin Allyson

Kansas City Jazz Alive’s Spotlight: Charlie Parker 2024 at the Folly Theater celebrates the jazz icon’s 104th birthday with a series of jam sessions, musical tributes, tours, lectures, exhibits, panel discussions, workshops, and concerts. This annual program honors Parker, also known as Bird, and his profound impact on jazz both in Kansas City and worldwide. The highlight of this year’s event is a Capstone Celebration featuring The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra. Emceed by historian, author, and radio personality Chuck Haddix, the evening promises a rich narrative of Parker’s life and legacy. The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra has curated a special set of Parker’s tunes, including classics like Anthropology, Parker’s Mood, and Now’s The Time, arranged specifically for this concert. The performance will showcase Kansas City’s exceptional talent, with arrangements tailored to the city’s unique, swinging style. The event promises a vibrant celebration of Parker’s enduring influence on jazz, with burning saxophone solos by five of Kansas City’s finest musicians. This contemporary tribute underscores the timelessness of Parker’s artistry, affirming that Bird’s legacy continues to thrive.

Kansas City Jazz Alive's Spotlight: Charlie Parker 2024

Born in 2001 in Hackensack, NJ, Matthew Whitaker grew up surrounded by music. His love for playing music first began at the young age of 3 after his grandfather gave him a small Yamaha keyboard. At 9, Matthew began teaching himself how to play the Hammond B3 organ. Four years later, he became the youngest artist to be endorsed by Hammond in its 80+ year history. He was also named a Yamaha Artist at 15, becoming the youngest musician to join the stellar group of jazz pianists.

Matthew Whitaker

Pianist, composer and arranger John Beasley is one of those figures who have reached the mountaintop in the jazz world. A noted keyboardist with none other than Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard, leader of the renowned MONK’estra, and double GRAMMY award winner, Mr. Beasley represents all facets of the music. Join us as John brings his arrangements of Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, Duke Ellington, Wayne Shorter and more to life alongside our vibrant big band.

Iconic Masters: Bird, Monk, Duke & More

The joy that emanates from guitarist Norman Brown while he is playing is palpable. The guitar is simply an extension of him. The multi-platinum selling and chart-topping musician is an artist who is truly in service of the music with the goal to be a force for positivity. “I wish to be of service to my fellowmen as I journey through life,” he explains. “I look upon my work as an opportunity to be overcome with joy and to make the most of it. I want to inspire others to search inside themselves for the silver lining. We all have an opportunity to grow in gratitude for our lives and the blessings we have.” A dedicated meditation and Tai Chi practitioner, Brown confides that there are definite parallels between his practice of the aforementioned Ancient Art and his music. Brown reveals that it comes down to one thing – “balance.” With all of the accolades that Norman Brown has amassed the past three decades, including Grammy and Soul Train Music Awards, he has stayed the course for one reason. “Knowing that I’ve been commissioned by the Most High to channel a message of inspiration and motivation, brings me happiness,” he states. The Atlanta-based musician’s love affair with the guitar began at age eight. Watching his older brother play, Norman was drawn to the energy radiating from what he now calls his “Spirit Catcher,” the strings on the guitar. Waiting for his brother Roy Brown Jr., “Popsicle” to leave, Norman couldn’t wait to get his hands on his six string carefully stored in the closet. Luckily for us, Brown’s love affair with the guitar is still going strong. His technical wizardry, genre-bending facility, soulful finesse, and charisma, have made him one of the most sought-after internationally renowned musicians in Contemporary Jazz. Just ask his devoted and loyal fan base affectionately dubbed ‘Normantics.’ A musician’s musician, Brown has collaborated with everyone from George Benson, Brian McKnight, Kirk Whalum, and Miki Howard, to Jeff Lorber, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Peabo Bryson, and Chanté Moore, to name a few. Shanachie Entertainment VP of Jazz A&R, Danny Weiss, states, “At the risk of being blasphemous, Norman is the true successor to Wes Montgomery and George Benson. Like them, he’s a jazz musician of the highest order, but you hardly notice because you’re having so much fun listening to him.” At the core of Brown’s life and work are the 11 laws of God, the principles of universal law and wisdom from the Ancient Egyptian Spiritual Studies, The Ausar Auset Initiation System, “The Paut Neteru Of Anu,” The Tree of Life, which focuses on peace, harmonious unification, wisdom, spirit power, order and truth, balance, justice, free will, creativity, thoughts and morality, manifestation and devotion for divine earthly living.

Norman Brown

The GRAMMY Award® winning vocal supergroup, säje" class="css-u850">säje" class="css-u850">säje (rhymes with “beige”), is the brainchild of vocalist/composers Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick, and Erin Bentlage. Born out of close friendship and deep admiration, these world-renowned artists, composers, and arrangers have come together to explore, create, and celebrate the music that moves them. As individuals, each artist has crafted their own notable solo career, and now are delighted to bring their collective voices to this union, traversing a vast array of compelling original material, beloved jazz standards, and contemporary re-imaginings (The Bad Plus, YEBBA, Björk, etc). After debuting an inspiring and energized set at the 2020 Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans, säje went on to tour multiple jazz festivals and clubs from January to March.

For a lot of us, our entry into the jazz world came from the inexplicable world of a lovable boy and his beagle traversing the meaning of the season in an animated special. The timeless music of Vince Guaraldi has been played in more households than nearly any other artist, and we are so enthused to deliver a momentous arrangement of selections from A Charlie Brown Christmas for big band — for the first time ever! Join KCJO and guest vocalist Lee Langston as we create a new holiday tradition. Good Grief!

Jazz events in Kansas City, MO

Herbie Hancock

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Cyrus Chestnut in concert...

Folly Theater

Pat Metheny, Side-Eye III...

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Chris Thile with The Kans...

Kansas City Symphony

Reform94

Union Scene

Street Dance: Post-Stadiu...

America's Freedom Festival at Provo

Closing Reading: Sophia M...

Gasteig HP8

The Artelize Podcast Pres...

Artelize

Lakecia Benjamin

Folly Theater

Cheyenne Jackson

Folly Theater

Glamour of Old Hollywood ...

Folly Theater

13th Annual Kansas City B...

Folly Theater

Helen Sung Meets Bach Ari...

Folly Theater

An Evening with Branford ...

Folly Theater

säje

Folly Theater

Yellowjackets

Folly Theater

Some Enchanted Evening fe...

Folly Theater

Karrin Allyson

Folly Theater

Kansas City Jazz Alive's ...

Folly Theater

Matthew Whitaker

Folly Theater

Iconic Masters: Bird, Mon...

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Norman Brown

Folly Theater

säje

Folly Theater

A Charlie Brown Christmas...

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts