Knoxville Jazz Orchestra’s NXT GEN series, a platform for a younger generation of jazz musicians, picks up where it left off last fall and returns for a Spring ’23 set of three double-header engagements. Performances are scheduled for Sunday evenings on March 19, April 16, and May 7 at the Old City Performing Arts Center. NXT GEN is organized and led by pianists Sam Adams, Margherita Fava, Taber Gable and guitarist Jack Roben.
The March 19th concert splits its bill between music from Margherita Fava’s recent debut album, TATATU—and music from saxophonist/keyboardist Bernell Jones. Performers: Margherita Fava – piano; Bernell Jones – saxophone; Dean Torrey – bass; and Griffin Photoglou on drums.
On April 16, pianist/composer Sam Adams and his quintet will feature his original music “dedicated to and inspired by the people and experiences that Adams has encountered as a musician working in his hometown” of Knoxville. Adams’ be joined by Terry Washington (trumpet), Michael Price (saxophone), Tyler Cain (bass), and Nolan Nevels (drums).
The second half of that concert features drummer/composer Kenneth Brown and his music drawn from and inspired by 80s/90s funk, R&B, and rock. Brown is joined by Margherita Fava (piano), Dean Torrey (bass), Will Boyd (saxophone) and Terry Washington (trumpet).
The May 7 concert begins its bill with a set by guitarist Jack Roben and a “wealth of musical treasures” that fall into the category of “Americana”—blues, country, Appalachian, and others.
The second set finds pianist Taber Gable featuring original compositions as well as covers from groups such as Derek Trucks Band, Tyler Childers, Christopher Cross, Sons of Champlin and Elton John. In addition to Gable on piano and vocals, his ensemble will feature Devin Harrel – lead vocals and guitar; Cameron Duffy – lead guitar; Joe Jordan – trumpet; Chuck Mullican – tenor saxophone; David Beecher – bass; and Nolan Nevels – drums.
Tickets for the NXT GEN series can be purchased as a bundle of all three concerts or individually. Click here for ticket information.
