The Art of Jazz Series Returns in 2025: Celebrating Tradition and Shaping an Exciting Future

Celebrating Over Two Decades of Internationally Acclaimed Jazz in Buffalo, the 2025 Season Welcomes Legendary Performers, Rising Stars, and a Continued Legacy of Excellence

The Art of Jazz Series: Honoring its Legacy and Charting the Future

The Art of Jazz Series is set to make a triumphant return on February 2, 2025, at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, continuing a tradition that has enriched Buffalo’s cultural landscape for over two decades. Founded in 1999 by Bruce Eaton, whose vision brought jazz luminaries to Buffalo, the series is now led by Tony Zambito, Executive Director of JazzBuffalo, ensuring its legacy and mission to celebrate the best in jazz continue to thrive.

A Rich History of Memorable Performances

Since its inception, the Art of Jazz Series has been a beacon for jazz fans in Buffalo, presenting iconic musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world of jazz. In the earlier years, the series featured Charles Lloyd New Quartet, Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio, Fred Hersch Trio, Gregory Porter, Cécile McLorin Salvant, and others each bringing their unique artistry to Buffalo’s audiences. More recent years saw the likes of Carla Bley, Monty Alexander, and the Bill Charlap Trio.

Building an Esteemed Reputation

Under the stewardship of Bruce Eaton and now Tony Zambito, the series has garnered recognition as one of the premier jazz events in North America, attracting internationally acclaimed artists and fostering a vibrant jazz community in Buffalo. Its commitment to excellence has not only provided a platform for legendary performers but has also introduced audiences to emerging talents, contributing significantly to the city’s cultural vitality. For instance, the series presented Gregory Porter and Cecile McLorin Salvant before they reached star status in jazz internationally.

Showcasing Next-Generation Artists

The Art of Jazz Series has long been a vital platform for introducing Buffalo audiences to the next generation of jazz luminaries. Recent years have seen remarkable performances by artists, at both Kleinhans Music Hall – Mary Seaton Room and the Buffalo AKG auditorium, pushing the boundaries of jazz and infusing it with fresh perspectives:

• Elio Villafranca: Celebrated for his Afro-Cuban jazz compositions, Villafranca brought dynamic rhythms and innovative arrangements to the series in a monumental tribute to Chick Corea. And recorded the largest sellout of the series, with over 500 in attendance, in the Mary Seaton Room of Kleinhans Music Hall.
• Marquis Hill: This trumpeter’s modern and soulful approach to jazz captivated listeners and reflected the evolution of the genre.
• Miguel Zenón: An 11-time Grammy® nominee, Zenón’s masterful blending of Latin American rhythms with jazz traditions resonated with audiences.
• Dan Wilson: The guitarist’s skillful improvisations and soulful melodies highlighted the exciting possibilities of contemporary jazz.

By providing a stage for these artists and others, the series not only honors jazz’s rich history but also supports its vibrant future.

Looking Back: A Memorable Tribute in 2023

In November 2023, the Art of Jazz Series presented an extraordinary tribute to the legendary Tadd Dameron, featuring baritone saxophone virtuoso Gary Smulyan and introducing rising jazz vocal sensation Anaïs Reno. This performance highlighted Dameron’s enduring impact on jazz with sophisticated arrangements and heartfelt interpretations, cementing its place as one of the series’ most memorable events.

This lineup and legacy demonstrate the Art of Jazz Series’ unwavering commitment to celebrating jazz’s rich past while embracing its vibrant future.

Continuing the Tradition with the 2025 Season

The 2025 Art of Jazz Series promises to uphold its esteemed tradition with an exceptional lineup:

• February 2, 2025: The Dena DeRose Quartet, featuring drummer Sherrie Maricle, will open the season with a dynamic performance that blends vocal artistry with swinging piano.
• March 9, 2025: Pianist Joe Alterman will captivate audiences with his swinging style and homage to jazz great Les McCann.
• April 13, 2025: The Jeff Hamilton Trio will present a special tribute to Oscar Peterson’s “Canadiana Suite,” celebrating Peterson’s centennial.
• May 18, 2025: The season concludes with the Emmet Cohen Trio, led by the charismatic and technically brilliant Emmet Cohen, whose infectious energy promises an unforgettable finale.

Looking Ahead

As the Art of Jazz Series looks to the future, it faces challenges such as rising production costs and the evolving expectations of a new generation of jazz artists. However, with the unwavering support of the Buffalo jazz community, the series is well-positioned to adapt and continue its legacy.

The 2025 season stands as a testament to continuing the commitment to present internationally acclaimed jazz artistry. It reflects the enduring love for jazz in Buffalo and its role in shaping the city’s vibrant cultural landscape while embracing the exciting possibilities of the next generation of jazz.

(Go to this link to subscribe to the 2025 Art of Jazz Series Season and save 20% until February 1st. Act soon! 2025 Art of Jazz Series at Buffalo AKG )

(Photo Credits: Jack Zuff, Tom Loonan, Tony Zambito)