Mis-Education of Latin Jazz: The Experience of “Latin Jazz” through a culturally informed lens
Oct 16
Discover the rich, often overlooked history of “Latin Jazz” as we explore its Afro-Cuban roots and cultural significance. Join us for an enlightening discussion led by Dr. Andres Espinoza Agurto from Florida Atlantic University, accompanied by a performance from the Agbara Ensemble! This event will delve into the historical and cultural forces that have shaped the genre, including its economic marginalization and the impact of racism on its development. Together, we aim to inspire a deeper, more inclusive understanding of “Latin Jazz” and its profound legacy.
Series Sponsored by Whitaker Foundation
Jazz St. Louis Big Band Swings Sammy Nestico
Oct 17–19
Experience Jazz St. Louis Big Band Swings Sammy Nestico under the direction of Victor Goines! Long known for their annual celebration of the Ellington & Strayhorn Nutcracker, Jazz St. Louis Big Band has been heralded for its many collaborations within the St. Louis region. Mark your calendars for these dynamic performances you won’t want to miss.
Subscribe to Our ’24/25 Season!
Enjoy your own seats at one of the top listening rooms in the world! When picking a curated Series Subscriptions or Choose Your Own package, you are selecting a day and time that works for you with the benefits of having the same seats at each performance, discounted tickets, subscription parties, and access to discounted parking.
Thank you, NEA!
We are grateful to be included in this year’s list of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. This support helps Jazz St. Louis to continue advancing the uniquely American art of jazz through performance, education, and community engagement. Thank you Missouri Arts Council for helping make this possible!
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Ellington Strayhorn Nutcracker
Dec 20–21
In this special collaboration, Jazz St Louis and Saint Louis Dance Theatre join forces to present an innovative spin on a beloved holiday tradition! In 1960, equal billing of The Nutcracker by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn marked a milestone for the longtime collaborators. A brilliant musician, arranger, and active member of the LGBTQ+ community, Strayhorn lived in authenticity at a time where most worked to keep their identities hidden. Drawing inspiration from Strayhorn’s extraordinary life, choreographer Kirven Douthit-Boyd tells a magical story of a composer who dreams of writing a song for a legendary performer. After traveling to attend her one-night-only engagement, he finds himself emersed in a vibrant social scene, and entangled in an unexpected romance. The choice to set the work in St Louis’ popular entertainment quarter, Gaslight District, pays tribute to the prominent individuals and landmarks that gave rise to a vibrant time in the city’s cultural history. This work speaks to the power of community, the gift of love, and the importance of self-acceptance.
Jazz for Our Schools
Our Jazz for Our Schools program provides students from local area schools the chance to hang with world-class musicians and experience an incredible live show in one of the world’s top listening rooms, the Ferring Jazz Bistro!
The Next Set: From Jazz St. Louis
Enjoy this unique partnership with our Grand Center neighbor every weekend! Press play with the St. Louis Public Radio app or glide your dial to 90.7 FM every Friday and Sunday at 8 pm as we bring listeners exciting jazz performances recorded live from the Ferring Jazz Bistro.
Make Your Gift
Jazz St. Louis is more than just a celebrated concert venue. We are an education center to thousands of students each year! To live up to our mission, we rely on the generous charitable support of patrons just like you. Your online gift is 100% secure and 100% tax-deductible.
Immanuel Wilkins
Oct 23–27
Saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins fills every performance with empathy and conviction, bonding arcs of melody and lamentation to pluming gestures of space and breath. It’s clear to hear why the young alto saxophonist and composer has become one of the vital voices of jazz.
Swing Dance Halloween
Oct 30–31
Back by popular request, Swing Dance Night returns this time for Halloween! Enjoy a swing dance lesson followed by an open dance floor accompanied by live jazz with an all-star band of St. Louis’ finest! These events are open to dancers of all levels and costumes are encouraged!