Jazz Notes

April is Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM)—a time to honor the rich legacy and vibrant future of jazz music. Established by the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 2001, JAM celebrates jazz’s impact on culture, history, and artistic expression. And what better place to celebrate than Charleston, SC—a city with deep jazz roots and a thriving music scene?

Discover the powerful origins of jazz this Black History Month. Explore how the Jenkins Orphanage Band of Charleston shaped early jazz, blending African rhythms and Gullah culture to influence a groundbreaking musical movement rooted in resilience and creativity.

Building on the rich tradition of “O Tannenbaum,” composer and jazz musician Gordon (Dick) Goodwin has created a dynamic and innovative adaptation that transforms this classic into an exciting holiday jazz experience. Known for his exceptional work with The Big Phat Band, Goodwin’s arrangement of “O Tannenbaum” stands out as a vibrant fusion of styles, showcasing his unique musical voice.

We are pleased to announce that local music legend George Kenny will be honored with the 2024 Tip of the Hat Award at this year’s Charleston Jazz Gala. The prestigious award, named after Charleston Jazz Co-Founder Jack McCray and his renowned collection of hats, will be presented at the American Theater on Friday, October 18, 2024.

Music was Ron’s path to appreciating a diversity of expressions within his Navy family and among his school friends. Then as an adult, Ron Wiltrout discovered music quietly and it became his discipline…

Charleston Jazz proudly announces the appointment of Demetrius Doctor as the new Director of the Charleston Jazz Academy. Doctor, a distinguished jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the renowned institution.

Grace McNally is a classically trained guitarist whose style is influenced by various styles and cultures. Audiences enjoy her jazzy, folk-infused repertoire with hints of Cuban, African and Brazilian melodies and rhythms.

Gino Castillo is a renowned Latin jazz musician and recording artist based in Charleston, SC. Born in Ecuador, and trained musically in Cuba, he brings authenticity and technicality to every performance.

The dance. The City. The song. “Charleston! Charleston!” Kick forward, walk back, kick back, walk forward. Swing your arms and twist your feet. Shuffle, shimmy, and shake. The Charleston is one of the greatest dance crazes in American history, if not the greatest in the world. In the 1920’s, it spread the globe like wildfire. And, it’s still being done today, now over 100 years old!

Stachia Simmons, known by her fans as Sta.La.V., began playing drums at the age of two. The daughter of musicians, she grew up playing music in church. Being one of the youngest musicians in her congregation, it has been said that being so small, it was a challenge for her not to slide right out of her chair when performing!