Whitaker Jazz Speaks Performance & Lecture Series

The Whitaker Jazz Speaks Performance & Lecture Series gives jazz music a voice through which to share stories, draw connections, and generate new meaning for this treasured American art form. Curated for the audience to experience relevant social, historical, and cultural topics through the lens of jazz, each program includes a deep dive into a historical or social aspect of jazz in various mediums led by a subject expert and includes a live-music performance. Tickets are of no cost to you but registration is required.

Whitaker Jazz Speaks events are open to the public with gratitude to Whitaker Foundation for their ongoing support.

Growing Up In Gaslight Square

David Sanborn on the Influence and Impact of St. Louis on his Life in Music

September 12, 2023

Join us for a very special Whitaker Jazz Speaks event as Jazz St. Louis President and CEO Victor Goines interviews David Sanborn! We’ll hear Sanborn’s perspective on the rich cultural and societal elements of the St. Louis jazz scene of the mid-20th century and how those elements informed his development as a musician.

Women in Jazz, moderated by Victor Goines

November 8, 2023 

Join Jazz St. Louis for a special Whitaker Jazz Speaks event showcasing the indelible imprint that women have made on America’s original art form. Jazz St. Louis President & CEO Victor Goines will be moderating a discussion and Q&A with Jo Ann Daugherty, Tina Raymond, Mimi Jones, and St. Louis’ own Dawn Weber! These accomplished musicians will also be performing.

Ebony Gilbert: Billie Holiday – The Graphic Novel

January 28, 2024

Dive into the celebrated life of “Lady Day” for this very special Whitaker Jazz Speaks event! This fully-illustrated graphic novel that tells the story of Billie Holiday’s rapid—and, at times, grueling—rise to become one of the best musicians who ever lived.

Ronald Carter: East St. Louis Lincoln High School Reunion

April 10, 2024

Join us for a unique Whitaker Jazz Speaks event and East St. Louis Lincoln High School Reunion! Educator Ronald Carter will lead a discussion and performance.