Shows
Jazz88Thirty Second Street Jazz Plays Miles Plus Its Own Originals at Metronome This Coming FridayThirty Second Street Jazz gives fresh Spins to important Jazz. Friday October 10 at 7pm at Metronome in Saint Paul, Thirty Second Street Jazz plays its take on the Miles Davis LP Kind of Blue, plus its original music and unique mashups. But what’s a mashup? When bassist Scott Anderson talked to Phil Nusbaum about Thirty Second Street Jazz, Scott first addressed the difference between a mashup and a medley.
2025-10-0508 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium Plays Fusion Jazz Classics Plus Original Music Next Thursday at the Hook and LadderGlobal Jazz Collegium performs classics of Fusion Jazz plus its own original music this Thursday night September 25 at the Hook and Ladder in Minneapolis. The show will be from 8 till 11. We open this feature with Global Jazz Collegium playing one of the great classics of the Fusion movement, a piece by Chick Corea.
2025-09-2108 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium Plays Fusion Jazz Classics Plus Original Music Next Thursday at the Hook and LadderGlobal Jazz Collegium performs classics of Fusion Jazz plus its own original music this Thursday night September 25 at the Hook and Ladder in Minneapolis. The show will be from 8 till 11. We open this feature with Global Jazz Collegium playing one of the great classics of the Fusion
movement, a piece by Chick Corea.
2025-09-2108 min
Jazz88Selby Avenue Jazz Fest Bigger than Ever and Comes to Saint Paul Friday - Sunday September 12 -14The Selby Avenue Fest includes great performances and master classes by artists with something to say. The complete schedule is at Selby Ave jazz fest dot com. Ernest Bisong is the artistic director of Walker West Academy, the presenting sponsor the Selby Avenue Jazz Fest. When Ernest met with Phil Nusbaum, the two spoke of jazz in general, some of the artists at the event, and the event’s educational opportunities.
2025-09-0908 min
Jazz88Minnesota Jazz Legends 2025 with Art Katzman, Grant West, Debbie Duncan and Jay EpsteinEach year, Jazz88 honors 4 individuals who have been pioneers of Minnesota's jazz scene. This year, the honorees are Art Katzman (trombone), Grant West (piano), Jay Epstein (drums), and award winning singer, the late Debbie Duncan. The live concert and conversation took place at the Minnesota History Center's 3M Theater on April 13th, 2025 and was curated and produced by Patty Peterson. Minnesota Jazz Legends is supported by The MInnesota Arts And Cultural Heritage Fun, and Jazz88.
2025-07-0856 min
Jazz88JC Sanford Grows the Northfield Jazz FestivalJC Sanford, the organizer of the Northfield Jazz Festival, swung by the studios of Jazz88 to discuss the 2025 installment of the festival, which takes place July 11-13. The event is only its second year, but it's already tripled in size. Sanford and co will host events from Friday evening all the way to Sunday evening. Listen to find out more about the Northfield Jazz Fest and this year's headlining artists, Miguel Zenon and Luis Perdomo.
2025-07-0808 min
Jazz88Jenny Klukken Jazz Fest 2025Marimbist Jenny Klukken and her quartet will perform a unique show for the Twin Cities Jazz Fest, Friday June 20th at 4:30PM on the PBS Stage. Jenny talks to Sam Keenan about being one of very few marimba players on the jazz scene.
2025-06-1704 min
Jazz88Adi Yeshaya Jazz Fest 2025The Adi Yeshaya Jazz Orchestra featuring Jennifer Grimm perform at the Twin Cities Jazz Fest 2025 on the Jazz88 Main Stage, Friday June 20th at 4PM. Adi talks to Sam Keenan about working with a big group and his Twin Cities Jazz Fest Experiences.
2025-06-1705 min
Jazz88Twin Cities Jazz Festival Executive Director Dayna Martinez Visits Jazz88Dayna Martinez is gearing up for a busy June but she took some time to visit Jazz88 and talk about the upcoming Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Festival events begin on June 19 with the main action happening June 20-21. Martinez talked about performances and masterclasses that she's excited about and she provided some tips on how to go even deeper with Jazz Festival activities.
2025-05-2807 min
Jazz88Larry McDonough Quartet Celebrates its New CD which Celebrates Jazz LegendsThe Larry McDonough Quartet Played Monthly at the Aster Café in Minneapolis. Each show celebrated the music of a major jazz figure, and each of those shows was recorded, and now, the highlights are being released on a Larry McDonough Quartet CD called “Best of the Aster Classic Jazz Series.” The CD release event takes place at the Aster in Minneapolis, 8pm Friday April 25. When Larry talked to Phil Nusbaum about the project, Larry first addressed how an artist benefits from close study of the work of others.
2025-04-2008 min
Jazz88Celebrating Jazz Apreciation Month with Big BandsJazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with Riley Helgeson, a trumpeter who handles publicity for Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis. To celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month, Jazz Central is presenting free concerts by Twin Cities big bands each Sunday in April. Venues for the concerts include the Hook and Ladder Theater and MCN6.
2025-04-0107 min
Jazz88Walker West Hosts A Youth Women in Jazz WorkshopKatia Cardenas is a professional singer in the Twin Cities as well as being the program director for Walker West without Walls. Cardenas is also at the helm of the Women in Jazz Initiative for Walker West. This Saturday there is as a "Youth Women in Jazz Workshop" at South High School. Katia was nice enough to connect with MN Jazz Tracks host Sam Keenan to talk about this initiative in general and Saturday's workshop in particular.
2025-02-0408 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium’s First Time at Berlin in MinneapolisPavel Jany leads the Global Jazz Collegium into Berlin in Minneapolis, for the group’s first ever appearance at the club. It will be this Friday night, February 7 from 7:30 till 10pm. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Pavel talked about the evolution of the jazz approaches taken by the group.
2025-02-0408 min
Jazz88North Star Jazz Workshops Launch Adult ClassesJazz88's Peter Solomon visited an adult jazz combo in their first rehearsal directed by bassist/educator Chris Bates at Jazz Central. The combo is one of eleven groups that got started in January through North Star Jazz Workshops.
2025-01-2904 min
Jazz88The River City Jazz Orchestra Pleases Ears in Familiar and Unfamiliar WaysThe River City Jazz Orchestra sports 17 pieces. The number of pieces gives the group the ability to play in many moods, revisit old songs in surprising new ways, and provide space for creative soloing. Roger Grup is co-lead trumpeter for the band, and he talked with Phil Nusbaum about keeping the approach fresh.
2025-01-2808 min
Jazz88Star of the North Jazz Orchestra In its Monthly Beast Barbecue Show Tuesday January 28The Star of the North Jazz Orchestra performs its monthly show at the Beast Barbecue in Minneapolis, Tuesday January 28. Phil Nusbaum talked with founding member Patrick Gonsalves and singer Jen Burleigh – Bentz, first about the mission of Star of the North.
2025-01-2608 min
Jazz88Sarah Savratil Leads 2-Saxophone Band into Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis Next Friday NightSarah Navratil leads her group into jazz Central Studios This Friday night from 8 till 9:30. Sarah plays the tenor sax, and she duets with Sophia Kickofel who plays the alto. The evening’s music pays tribute to jazz composers Lenny Tristano, Warren Marsh and Lee Konitz. When Sarah talked about the show with Phil Nusbaum, she referenced the saxophone duet on the Tristano composition, Background Music.
2024-12-2208 min
Jazz88MaLLy Likes Jazz TooOn the week of the release of MaLLy and Last Word's new album "The Sweetest of It All" MaLLy took some time to connect with Jazz88 to discuss his love of jazz. MaLLy's artform is hip-hop but his sources for inspiration run way deeper. He discussed how jazz can invite him to listen deeply, to relax and to celebrate Black culture in general. Listen in as MaLLy discusses some of his personal favorite jazz tracks with Sean McPherson.
2024-11-0609 min
Jazz88Southside Aces Present a Night of New Orleans Jazz at the Dakota in Minneapolis This Coming MondayThe Southside Aces performs New Orleans Jazz, old and new. This Monday night at 7, the Aces are at the Dakota in Minneapolis, with a show called a Night in New Orleans. Tony Balluff leads the Southside Aces. When Tony met with Phil Nusbaum, the talk turned to the great appeal of New Orleans jazz to Tony and the other Southside Aces
2024-10-0508 min
Jazz88Twin Cities Jazz Guitarist Joel Shapira Releases Second Quartet CD at Berlin in Minneapolis, Thursday October 3Twin Cities Jazz Guitarist Joel Shapira celebrates his new Quartet CD, titled Sleepless Montage, at the Club, Berlin, in Minneapolis, next Thursday at 7PM. The CD has 9 pieces, all composed by Shapira. About the title selection, Sleepless Montage, Joel told Phil Nusbaum, that the title refers to his compositional process.
2024-09-2008 min
Jazz88Selby Avenue Jazz Fest is a Neighborhood Event Everybody EnjoysSeptember 14 is the day of Saint Paul’s annual Selby Avenue Jazz Fest. The event has always featured great local talent representing many forms of Jazz, and with a great vibe as well. Phil Nusbaum talked to 2 event organizers, Mychael Wright and David Bonko about selecting talent. Jamecia Bennett is a local singer who has taken off in popularity, so Phil first asked Mychal if that selection was a no brainer.
2024-09-1008 min
Jazz88Peter Kogan Quintet performs at Jazz Central Studios this Friday NightPercussionist Peter Kogan’ musical biography includes work with the Minnesota Orchestra, backing blues legends such as Lightnin’ Hopkins and teaching at the University of MN School of Music. All those experiences and others have played into the Jazz groups that he has led. Peter leads his quintet into Jazz Central Studios, Friday September 6 at 8pm. When Peter talked about his music with Phil Nusbaum, Peter first addressed his fondness for Cedar Walton’s playing.
2024-09-0308 min
Jazz88Davina Likes Jazz TooLike so many jazz performers, Davina discovered jazz music early on in her life through her father and has loved and studied the music ever since. Davina connected with Sean via phone in advance of her upcoming show at the Dakota to discuss some of her favorite songs including Fats Waller's rendition of "I'm Going To Write Myself a Letter".
2024-08-2710 min
Jazz88Jazz Implosion Mondays Bring Electronics, Composition and Improvisation to Icehouse in MinneapolisThe focus is on synthesized music at Jazz Implosion Mondays, August 12, 19 and 26 at Icehouse in Minneapolis. The series is curated by deVon Gray. And each show presents multiple artists. When deVon met with Phil Nusbaum, deVon first addressed the joys of curating.
2024-08-1108 min
Jazz88Pavel Jany and the Global Jazz Collegium Celebrate Their Latest Release "Labyrinth" at Metronome Brewery on SundayTwin Cities-based guitarist Pavel Jany and his Global Jazz Collegium are back with their latest disc, Labyrinth. Jany and many of the other members of the Collegium also work in the group Ticket to Brasil, but for this group, they follow their interests beyond Brazil and explore many of the international sounds that have become part of the jazz palette. Jany stopped in to connect with Sean McPherson and talk about the new release and discuss how the pandemic supercharged this passion project with new enthusiasm. They’ll be celebrating the release at MetroNOME Brewery on Sunday, August 4 at 6:30 PM.
2024-07-3104 min
Jazz88Global Jazz Collegium Celebrates New CD Saturday August 4 at the Metronome in St PaulGlobal Jazz Collegium releases its new CD, 6:30 Saturday night August 4 at the Metrodome in Saint Paul. The CD is called Labyrinth and is centered on fusion jazz, with a mix of older music and originals. Pavel Jany plays the guitar and leads Global jazz Collegium, He talked to Phil Nusbaum about the piece opening the CD.
2024-07-2808 min
Jazz88Nyttu Chongo Performs his Jazz Bantu at the Ordway in Saint Paul this Friday EveningNyttu Chongo is a Minnesotan who performs a style called Jazz Bantu. The style combines music learned in Mozambique on African instruments with western classical instruments. Nyttu’s ensemble performs this Friday at the Ordway Theater in Saint Paul at 7:30pm. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Nyttu talked about many facets of his music, including his method of composing.
2024-07-2308 min
Jazz88Jennifer Grimm and Grady Cartony on Next Generation: JazzJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with vocalist Jennifer Grimm and 16-year-old saxophonist Grady Cartony about "Next Generation: Jazz," a show focusing on young Jazz artists taking place at Crooners at 5 PM on Sunday, July 21st. Two other showcases at Crooners will feature young artists from the Classical scene and Musical Theater Community.
2024-07-1807 min
Jazz88Northfield Jazz Fest Features Great Sets by Great Northfield Bands Saturday July 14, 2024Sunday afternoon July 14, the Northfield Jazz Fest takes place. It is a multi-venue event, with much of the action taking plat at Northfield’s Way Park. The fest is funded by the Southeast Minnesota Arts Council to showcase local talent. Phil Nusbaum talked about some of the Northfield band leaders at the fest, and the conversation started with JC talking about his group, the Immanent Standards trio. This trio project began before the pandemic, and then, as now, group members use well-worn tunes such as Ray Noble’s Cherokee as launching pads for improvisation.
2024-07-0208 min
Jazz88Minnesota Jazz Legends 2024 with Mikkel Romstad, Dr. Henry Blackburn, Roberta Davis, and Brian GrivnaJazz88 honors our Minnesota Jazz Legends 2024 Mikkel Romstad, Dr. Henry Blackburn, Brian Grivna and the late Roberta Davis and hosted by Patty Peterson. The live concert and conversation took place April 14th at the Minnesota History Center’s 3M theater. Minnesota Jazz legends 2024 is funded by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and Jazz88.
2024-06-2456 min
Jazz88Patty Peterson talks to saxophonist, Claudia Medina, about her upcoming shows at the Twin Cities Jazz Fest 2024Patty Peterson talked to saxophonist Claudia Medina as she talked about her life in Peru, her passion for jazz, and her appearances at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Not only did she have a concert on the main stage with her band but she was instrumental in leading the Walker West Women In Jazz Retreat and concert.
2024-06-2006 min
Jazz88Patty Peterson talks to Ella Grace (trumpet, composer) Twin Cities Jazz Fest 2024 AppearancesTrumpet player and composer, Ella Grace, joined Patty Peterson to talk about her upcoming performances at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival 2024. She is a part of the Walker West Women In Jazz Retreat, and will also be leading her own band at Metronome.
2024-06-2006 min
Jazz88Damian Kulash from OK Go Likes Jazz TooDamian Kulash, the singer and guitarist for Ok Go is getting ready for a show at First Ave on July 11 and he was eager to connect with Jazz88 and discuss how he has connected with jazz throughout his life. During his conversation with Sean McPherson, Kulash discussed the way jazz got him to focus on what is central to the power of music. The conversation focused in particular on New Orleans legend Snooks Eaglin's cover of "Careless Love".
2024-06-1809 min
Jazz88Twin Cities Jazz Festival Presented on Multiple Stages Friday and Saturday June 21 and 22The annual Twin Cities Jazz Festival is staged at multiple venues this Friday and Saturday. The event presents some of the biggest names in Jazz, as well as highlight performances by local performers. Dayna Martinez is executive director of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, and she talked to Phil Nusbaum about a few local artists doing big things, such as Kaviesh Kaviraj.
2024-06-1808 min
Jazz88Joe Lovano Brings His Quartet to the Twin Cities Jazz FestivalJoe Lovano connected with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 in anticipation of his performance at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on Saturday June 22. Lovano and McPherson discussed Lovano's long running quartet, his legendary role in the Paul Motian Trio alongside Bill Frisell and Lovano's many great experiences in the Twin Cities including a show with the Woody Herman Orchestra back in the 1970s.
2024-06-1009 min
Jazz88Walter Griffin and Patrice Goodall Abbe on Jazz Exhibit at Dow Art GalleryJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with documentary photographer Walter Griffin and painter and designer Patrice Goodall Abbe about "Jazz 'n' More," an exhibit of photographs and paintings on display at Dow Art Gallery June 6th - June 29th. Dow Art Gallery will host an event celebrating the exhibit featuring the Walker West Jazz Ensemble on June 13th.
2024-06-0613 min
Jazz88Karrin Allyson on "A Kiss for Brazil" and Twin Cities Jazz FestivalJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with singer Karrin Allyson about her new Origin records release titled "A Kiss for Brazil," which features a guest appearance by legendary Brazilian singer Rosa Passos. She also discusses her upcoming performance June 21st at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
2024-05-3110 min
Jazz88Tony Balluff on Jimmie Noone, Jazzclectic, and the Jazz Age RumpusJazz88's Peter Solomon caught up with clarinetist Tony Balluff of the Southside Aces. Balluff talked about one of his musical heroes: New Orleans clarinetist Jimmy Noone. He also discussed the formation of the South Side Aces, the group he co-founded twenty years ago with tuba player Erik Jacobson (The Southside Aces will be featured in the next Jazz88 Jazzclectic Concert on Saturday April 18th). Finally, Tony laid out the details of the Jazz Age Rumpus, taking place at the Hook and Ladder on May 19th.
2024-05-1015 min
Jazz88Pavel Jany’s World Jazz Collegium Pays Tribute to Jazz Rock Fusion at Crooner’sMinnesota’s Pavel Jany came of age musically during the Jazz-Rock Fusion era of the 1970s. His Group, World Jazz Collegium carries the banner of Fusion with a big show at Crooner’s Supper Club in Fridley, Thursday May 9 at 6:30pm. When Pavel talked to Phil Nusbaum about Jazz-Rock Fusion, Pavel reflected on his start in performing.
2024-05-0508 min
Jazz88Dayne Martinez Reveals Complete Lineup for Twin Cities Jazz FestivalDayna Martinez, Executive Director of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, visited the Morning Show on International Jazz Day to reveal the complete lineup of artists performing at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on June 21st and 22nd.
2024-04-3007 min
Jazz88Hot Club at the Hook Presents Three Leading Minnesota Hot Club Jazz BandsThe Mississippi Hot Club, the Red Hot Django Peppers and Gypsy Mania, three leading hot club jazz bands are getting together for a concert on April 6. The show is called Hot Club at the Hook, and the Hook is the Hook and Ladder in Minneapolis. One of the event’s curators, Glen Helgeson of Gypsy Mania talked with Phil Nusbaum about the event. Glen first addressed the reason the show is important to the Jazz community.
2024-03-3108 min
Jazz88Katia Cardenas Introduces a Jazz Workshop for Women, Non-Binary and Trans Players This Weekend at Walker-WestKatia Cardenas is at the helm for Walker-West's "Women in Jazz Initiative". This Saturday the team is hosting a jazz workshop and jazz jam sessions with players like Mary Louise Knutson, Tasha Baron, BEth Varela and Sophia Kaufmann and more. Cardenas spoke about the importance of creating places to play and learn jazz that are focused around women.
2024-03-2108 min
Jazz88Tina Schlieske's Journey To Jazz Started From the InsideTina Schlieske has been a fixture in the Twin Cities music scene since the 1990s but this is the first time she's had a project so centered in jazz. On her new album "The Good Life" Schlieske performed classic numbers with some of the finest musicians in the Twin Cities jazz scene. Tina stopped in to chat with Sean McPherson about the new album and about the release show at Icehouse.
2024-03-0106 minJazz88Dayna Martinez Previews the Twin Cities Jazz FestivalPeter Solomon spoke with Dayna Martinez, Executive Director of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, about the headliners that will be featured at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in June.
2024-02-2703 min
Jazz88GiftedHandz showcases its Gospel Fusion Friday Night at Jazz Central Studios in MinneapolisGiftedHandz is a Minneapolis group of young people who have come up playing multiples styles in church settings. The group performs Friday night March 1 at 8pm at Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis. When Joe Mason, a GiftedHandz founding member, sat down with Phil Nusbaum, Joe discussed GiftedHandz’ musical blend.
2024-02-2708 min
Jazz88Cathy McLeer from AARP Minnesota on the Twin Cities Winter Jazz FestPeter Solomon spoke with Cathy McLeer, State Director for AARP Minnesota about the Twin Cities Winter Jazz Fest.
2024-02-2103 min
Jazz88Jamecia Bennett Brings Jazz, Blues, and Soul to the OrdwayJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with singer Jamecia Bennett about her concert Friday, February 23rd at the Ordway, which she says will celebrate the the evolution of music from African roots to jazz, blues, and soul. Bennett is a resident artist at the Ordway.
2024-02-1606 min
Jazz88"The Way of the World Is Collaboration, Not Competition," Scotty Barnhart on Basie, His Recent Grammy and the MMEA All State Jazz OrchestraJazz88's Peter Solomon speaks with trumpeter Scotty Barnhart, the leader of the Basie Orchestra for the past twenty years. Barnhart discusses his early exposure to music at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, how he came to play the trumpet, how he felt the first time he heard the Basie Orchestra, the background behind his Grammy-winning album "Basie Swings the Blues," and what to expect from the MMEA All State Jazz Band which he will be leading in two sets at the Dakota Friday night.
2024-02-1514 min
Jazz88The Most Important Jazz Musician You've Never Heard Of - Loren Schoenberg On a New Eddie Durham DocumentaryJazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with Loren Schoenberg, senior scholar at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, about a new documentary airing this week on PBS about pioneering trombonist, electric guitarist, composer, and arranger, Eddie Durham.
2024-02-0517 min
Jazz88"Your Most Valuable Currency as a Musician Is Your Reputation" - Billy Childs Reflects on the Impact of Grammy Nominations and Wins for Jazz MusiciansBilly Childs is no stranger to Grammy attention. Since 1995 Childs' work has been routinely nominated for Grammys and he's nabbed quite a few wins during his storied career as well. This year Childs is up for "Best Instrumental Jazz Album" for his work on his album "The Winds of Change". Sean McPherson connected with Billy Childs to get input on the impact and importance of the Grammys for a career jazz musician.
2024-01-3012 min
Jazz88Crime Novelist Michael Connelly on The Role of Jazz in Creating the Character of "Bosch"Jazz88's Peter Solomon spoke with award-winning mystery novelist Michael Connelly about how jazz played an essential role in establishing the character of Harry Bosch, the hard-edged loner cop with a penchant for bucking authority and a deep-seated love of jazz. Connelly himself became a jazz fan as he was doing the research for his books. (Image by Mark Coggins, San Francisco)
2024-01-2216 min
Jazz88Jazz88 Launches New Show "The Jazz Impulse" with Host Danny SigelmanJazz88 is getting ready to launch their newest show, "The Jazz Impulse". Danny Sigelman will host the new show on Saturdays 7-10pm. This show will be about the "now". The artists stepping on stage that night, the music that's making this great jazz scene go strong. Sigelman joined Sean McPherson to talk about the show and the inaugural episode!
2024-01-1205 min
Jazz88Dayna Martinez on Winter Jazz Fest 2024Dayna Martinez, the Executive Director of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, stopped by during the Morning Show to announce the artists that will be featured in Winter Jazz Fest coming up on February 24, 2024.
2023-12-0605 min
Jazz88"Every Other Culture Knows Their History, We Need to Know Our History Too" - Nabaté Isles Connects the Dots between Jazz and Hip-HopNabaté Isles connected with Jazz88 in advance of his show this Sunday at Crooners. The show is titled "Jazz's Influence on Hip-Hop". Isles was quick to point out how his upbringing in NYC in the golden era of hip-hop involved his artistry and his understanding of music in general. Nabaté also shared the information on the distinguished group of players and guests that he'll have with him on Sunday.
2023-11-0314 min
Jazz88Riverside Quartet Plays at Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis Next Saturday NightThe Riverside Quartet features original music. The drummer, Nicholas Peterson, leads the group, and composes a lot of the group’s repertoire. When he talked to Phil Nusbaum ahead of the group's jazz Central Studios show next Thursday night, Nicholas addressed why the Riverside Quartet features its originals.
2023-10-2208 min
Jazz88Caption: Joan Hutton, Credit: D. Soderstrom Image by: D. Soderstrom Joan Hutton Joan Hutton Showcases Her Jazz Side in the Joan Hutton Jazz ProjectJoan Hutton plays in many musical settings. We’ve known Joan through her work in the Ancia Saxophone Quartet for example, playing modern classical music. But she’s also a noted jazz musician with a growing catalog of original work representing varied jazz styles. When Joan sat down with Phil Nusbaum, she talked about her jazz funk side.
2023-10-0108 min
Jazz88Yohannes Tona and Dibekulu Bring Ethio-Jazz to the Twin CitiesYohannes Tona, an internationally renown bassist, and vocalist Dibekulu have teamed up to bring Ethio-Jazz to the Twin Cities. Listen to the interview to find out how Yohannes discovered the sounds of Ethio-jazz while learning other styles of music. And discover how the notes of the Amharic scales of Ethiopia combining with Latin and jazz rhythms and harmonies brought about a new sound, largely canonized by Mulatu Astatke.
2023-09-2112 min
Jazz88Minnesota Jazz Legends 2023Jazz88 Radio Host, Patty Peterson, reminisces with several Twin Cities jazz legends, who have achieved local and national acclaim, including educator, arranger and composer, Denny Malmberg (piano, accordion, bass)-composer, sculptor and Arawak Records founder, Douglas Ewart (saxophone, flute), award winning composer and educator Joan Griffith (guitar, bass, mandolin), and “A Prairie Home Companion” musician and Jazz88 radio host, the late Butch Thompson (piano, clarinet). Minnesota Jazz Legends 2023 was made possible through support provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund and Jazz88.
2023-08-2458 min
Jazz88Art and All That Jazz Festival Returns to BurnsvilleThe 30-Days Foundation’s Art and All that Jazz Festival comes to the Ames Center and Nicollet Commons Park in Burnsville, Friday and Saturday August 18 and 19. The festival features prominent Twin Cities figures Steve Cole; Jamecia Bennett, known for her work solo and with the Sounds of Blackness; Jay Young with Ginger Commodore; Ticket to Brasil; and Mary Louise Knutson with Patti Peterson as a guest. Phil Nusbaum talked with the founder of the Art and All that Jazz festival, Dan Gustafson, who addressed what it is like to be the curator for an event.
2023-08-0808 min
Jazz88Greg Byers on his journey in Jazz Cello "Finding the Middle Ground and Being True to Your Artistic Vision"The Twin Cities based cellist Greg Byers stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about his new album, "Dear Zbigniew". Greg discussed how visiting Poland in 2018 for the Seifert International Jazz Violin Competition changed his life and where he believes the world of bowed jazz players is heading.
2023-07-2507 min
Jazz88"We're Bringing the Minneapolis Sound to the Stage" - Steve Cole Prepares for his Art and All the Jazz Festival PerformanceMack Avenue Recording artist and Minneapolis resident Steve Cole is getting ready for a headlining show at the Ames Center in Burnsville on Friday August 18. Steve was kind enough to visit the Afternoon Cruise and talk about his career, his connection to the Twin Cities and his path to becoming one of the big names in contemporary jazz.
2023-07-1905 min
Jazz88Lila Ammons' Road to Jazz Singing Had Unexpected and Worthwhile StopsLila Ammons. Hers is a prominent jazz family. Her grandfather, Albert, was a noted boogie woogie piano player, and her uncle was sax man Gene Ammons. But it hasn’t been jazz all the way with Lila, whose parents listened to a lot of symphonic music and opera.
2023-07-0408 min
Jazz88Katia Cardenas and Lucia Sarmiento Discuss The New "Women in Jazz Initiative"Katia Cardenas and Lucia Sarmiento are both instructors in a new program from Walker West Music Academy called the "Women in Jazz Initiative". The first combo of players from the program are playing on Saturday June 24 at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Katia and Lucia discussed the importance of creating spaces where girls can thrive and feel supported as they learn jazz. These instructor/practitioners also discussed their upcoming shows as musicians.
2023-06-2210 min
Jazz88Christian McBride Discusses the Band He's Bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz FestivalWhen Christian McBride was in town to play the Dakota in January he took time with Sean to discuss the ensemble he'd be bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
2023-06-2203 minJazz88Christian McBride Discusses the Band He's Bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz FestivalWhen Christian McBride was in town to play the Dakota in January he took time with Sean to discuss the ensemble he'd be bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
2023-06-2203 min
Jazz88Buddhist Priest Improvises Free Jazz on the Stage of Icehouse in Minneapolis, Friday Night June 23To play free Jazz, you have to monitor what your fellow musicians are doing. So says Dave power, the percussionist of Buddhist Priest, along with bassist Cody McKinney and keyboardist Dean Granros. Buddhist Priest performs 6 till 8:30 at Icehouse in Minneapolis on June 23. When Power talked with Phil Nusbaum, Dave first addressed how the group kicks off tunes.
2023-06-2008 min
Jazz88Award Winning High School Jazz Band with Big Show at the Metronome in Saint PaulThey’re calling themselves the Will Aldrich quintet, with Will and Gabe Hartnett playing saxophones, Rafi Karpowitz on the piano, Callum Schultz on the bass, and drummer Ataa Mensah. The group’s flair for both reimagining and composing jazz led it to an award at the Eau Claire Jazz festival. The Quintet’s next appearance is at the Metronome in Saint Paul, Wednesday June 21 at 8PM. When Phil Nusbaum got together with Will Aldrich, Will addressed the group’s treatment of Wayne Shorter’s Speak No Evil.
2023-06-1808 min
Jazz88Ernest Bisong from Walker-West Music Academy Visits Jazz88 To Talk Violins in JazzErnest Bisong, an accomplished violinist based out of the Twin Cities swung through the Jazz88 studios to talk about the role of violin in jazz music and to discuss his upcoming summer camp for string players.
2023-06-0511 min
Jazz88Doctor Mambo's Combo Visits Jazz Futures to Talk PrinceJulius Collins and Brian Ziemniak of Doctor Mambo's Combo came through Jazz Futures to talk about their upcoming Birthday Tribute to Prince. The show is called "Forever in My Life" and it's at Parkway Theater in South Minneapolis on June 7.
2023-06-0109 min
Jazz88Minneapolis Southwest High School Jazz Groups in Multi Style Concert Thursday June 1 at 7PMThe Southwest High School of Minneapolis showcases its Jazz Big Band and Jazz Combos, Thursday June first at the school. The show features not only the Southwest High School jazz groups, but the local After Hours Big Band. The Southwest bands are directed by Reid Wixson, who had a chance to talk with Phil Nusbaum about his groups and Jazz Education. Jazz Education is more than learning to play, but involves learning the history of Jazz.
2023-05-2808 min
Jazz88Edison High School Jazz Band teams with The Good The Bad and the Funky in Big Spring ShowEdison High School Jazz Band directed by Lesley Earles teams with Funk band The Good The Bad and the Funky for a 7PM performance at Edison on Tuesday May 23. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Lesley told of what she’s getting across to the high school players during rehearsals.
2023-05-1608 min
Jazz88Pete Whitman Visits Jazz88 to Discuss His Upcoming Concert Conducting The Minneapolis South High Jazz BandPete Whitman, the celebrated Minnesota-based saxophonist and composer swung by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming show leading and conducting the South High Jazz Band on May 24. This podcast was edited by Autumn Haeg.
2023-05-1605 min
Jazz88The Twin Cities Jazz Festival Team Visits the Afternoon Cruise to Share Artist Updates for the 2023 FestivalSteve Heckler and Dayna Martinez swung by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about The Twin Cities Jazz Festival. They covered details on the MPS Voices Youth Stage as well as provided highlights from all Jazz Fest has to offer.
2023-05-1106 min
Jazz88The Collin Roycroft Quartet Showcases Great Jazz at Next Thursday Jazz Central in MinneapolisThe Collin Roycroft Quartet plays the Emerging Talent series at jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis next Thursday at 8PM. At the show, Collin and the band will give its spins to great Jazz created over recent decades. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Collin addressed the tune Flamenco Sketches, which has nothing to do with Flamenco music or dance.
2023-04-0908 min
Jazz88Thomasina Petrus Portrays Jazz Icon Billie Holiday in Concert and on the StageThomasina Petrus sings in tribute of Jazz icon Billie Holiday. But Thomasina’s kind of tribute is to sing great songs as Billie might have sung them. The concert is Sunday April 9 at the Dakota at 6PM. Then Thomasina plays Billie in a stage production Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, starting April 21 at the Yellow Tree Theater in Osseo. Thomasina talked with Phil Nusbaum, but first, Thomasina sings a bit of a Billie song, “Don’t Explain.”
2023-04-0408 min
Jazz88The Hemingway Project Imagines Jazz in Paris Between the Two World Wars This Thursday at Crooner’sWe’re at a rehearsal of violinist Gary Schulte and pianist Rick Carlson of the Hemingway project. Along with bassist Graydon Peterson, the group plows the fertile field of Paris Jazz between the two world wars. Author Ernest Hemingway was a Paris presence at the time. As we join the rehearsal, Rick is speaking from his seat at the keyboard. They’re getting ready for a show at Crooners Supper Club in Fridley, Thursday March 30 at 7PM.
2023-03-2608 min
Jazz88John Penny’s Jazz Recycles Many Jazz Styles and He Reflects on Jazz Cultural BackgroundsGuitarist John Penny Is in touch with many jazz styles, and he uses many as sources for his new compositions. Also, when John performs, he offers insights into the cultural backgrounds that helped shaped Jazz stylistic development in different places and eras. When John Penny talked to Phil Nusbaum, John was reflecting on his appreciation for varied Jazz styles.
2023-03-1908 minJazz88Tanner Taylor Leads Piano Trio Into Jazz Central Studios Friday January 20Jazz pianist Tanner Taylor leads a classic piano trio with bassist Graydon Peterson and drummer Mac Santiago. Jazz fans can catch the act at Jazz Central Studios next Friday evening at 8PM. As far as repertoire, the trio has always leaned on jazz composer and pianist Oscar Peterson. When Tanner got together with Phil Nusbaum, Phil asked why.
2023-01-2208 min
Jazz88Lila Ammons Sings from jazz History Wednesday January 11 at the Prior Lake LibraryLila Ammons has always been interested in stylings from the history of jazz. On her trio’s show this Wednesday, January 11 at the Prior lake library, Lila presents historic blues as well as influences from bebop and right up to hip hop. When Lila talked to Phil Nusbaum, Lila first addressed the role of women in 1920s blues.
2023-01-1208 min
Jazz88Minnesota Jazz Chamber Orchestra Show at the Chart House Show Spotlights Songs of Ella FitzgeraldThe show by the Minnesota Jazz Chamber Orchestra at the Chart House in Lakeville has been rescheduled for Tuesday December 27 at 7pm. The performance will feature vocalist Courtney Burton’s interpretations of songs of Ella Fitzgerald. Then the group plays New Year’s Eve at the Masonic Heritage Center in Lakeville at 7. Courtney Burton and Craig Thrane of the group got together with Phil Nusbaum to talk about the shows. When Phil’s asked why Ella? Craig had a good response.
2022-12-2008 min
Jazz88The Tableaux Duo Creates Where Jazz and Classical Music Overlap December 9 at Crooner’s Supper Club in FridleyWhen pianist Laura Caviani and saxophonist David Milne perform, their shared classical music and jazz backgrounds bring about surprising new treatments. The duet plays at Crooners Lounge in Fridley, Friday December 9 at 6:30 PM. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, David talked about how the duet, known as the Tableaux Duo goes about working together.
2022-12-0608 min
Jazz88Take That Back Supports New CD with Jazz Central Studios Performance on December 3Take That Back is a group that plays the compositions of Joan Hutton and Sue Orfield, and plays Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis, Saturday December 3 at 8PM. But to Joan and Sue, it’s really much more than their compositions. When Sue and Joan talked to Phil Nusbaum, Joan made clear how important are Ted Godbout on piano, Kameron Markworth on bass and Dave Schmalenberger on drums.
2022-11-2908 min
Jazz88Free Improvised Jazz at the Icehouse in Minneapolis this Monday NightMonday is the night for the jazz series at the Icehouse in Minneapolis. On Monday November 21, it’s two groups that feature free improvisation. Phil Nusbaum spoke Michelle Kinney of Herbaceous and Alma Engebretson of Creatures of Prometheus. Both are composers. Phil asked Alma, first, how can you compose music that is free and improvised.
2022-11-1908 minJazz88Minnesota Jazz Legends 2022Join Patty Peterson in honoring our Minnesota Jazz Legends 2022, big band leader and educator, Dr. Steve Wright, bassist and author, Ollie Lyle, Minnesota Music Hall Of Fame recipient and pianist/vocalist, Linda Peterson, and Brazilian born pianist, the late Manfredo Fest. Excerpts are taken from a live concert and recognition event at Crooners Summer Club on May 1, 2022 and previously recorded interviews. Minnesota Jazz Legends 2022 is made possible through support provided by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund and Jazz88
2022-07-0457 min
Jazz88Matthew Whitaker Plans to Deliver Fun to Twin Cities Jazz FestivalWe spoke with Piano Prodigy Matthew Whitaker ahead of his upcoming headlining performance at Twin Cities Jazz Festival
2022-06-2304 min
Jazz88Brandon Goldberg on his influences, his pick from the latest album and teaming up with some of the best musicians in the world for Twin Cities Jazz FestThe Brandon Goldberg Quintet will play Twin Cities Jazz Festival Sat 6/25, more at jazz88.fm
2022-06-2204 min
Jazz88Zacc Harris Visits Jazz88 To Discuss His Upcoming Show at the Twin Cities Jazz FestZacc Harris, an in-demand guitar player from the Twin Cities, stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat with Sean McPherson about his upcoming show at the Twin Cities Jazz Fest. Harris and his group will be playing on Saturday at 2pm on the Jazz88 Mainstage.
2022-06-2006 min
Jazz88Honeybutter Brings its Folk, Jazz amd Choral Backgrounds to the Dakota on Wednesday June 8Honeybutter is a Twin Cities folk-jazz-bossa-nova-pop band. It’s eclectic because its members, Clara Wicklund, Andreas Fenner and Zak Khan come from varied musical backgrounds. Check out Honeybutter at 7PM, Wednesday June 8 at the Dakota in Minneapolis. Because different music styles have differing ways of arranging songs, when Andreas and Clara got together with Phil Nusbaum, Phil asked about the group process of arranging.
2022-06-0508 min
Jazz88Connie Evingson Leads Two String Jazz Shows This WeekMulti-faceted Minneapolis singer Connie Evingson shows her string jazz side in two performances this week with Patty and the Buttons. The group plays Wednesday June 1 at the Minneapolis Women’s Club and Saturday June 4th at Crooners. When Connie spoke with Phil Nusbaum, she related why she loves string jazz.
2022-05-2908 min
Jazz88The Kenne Thomas K-Tet Performs Saturday Night at Jazz Central Studios in MinneapolisKenne Thomas is a Twin Cities drummer with broad experiences and a bent towards arranging. He leads his K-Tet into Jazz Central Studios Saturday night May 14 at 8PM. When Kenne spoke with Phil Nusbaum, the talk turned to the reason for creating set arrangements for Jazz tunes.
2022-05-1008 min
Jazz88The 17-Piece Genesis Jazz Orchestra Welcomes Spring This Sunday in RosemountThe Genesis Jazz Orchestra is ready for its Big Show welcoming spring, this Sunday. It will be in the Rosemount Community Center at 4PM. Genesis often opens its sets with a tune called Jackson City Jubilee. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, trumpeter Steve Olson told why.
2022-04-2608 min
Jazz88The Noah Strom Trio Presents Jazz That Takes You Back Friday and Saturday Night at Umbra in MinneapolisNoah Strom plays keyboards and Sam Ryan plays the guitar. They form the core of the Noah Strom Trio, performing at Umbra in Minneapolis, 7 till 10 PM this Friday and Saturday night. The group plays old jazz plus some new compositions that sound old. When the two got together with Phil Nusbaum, Noah explained how the group works.
2022-01-0408 min
Jazz88Gypsy Mania Plays an American Take on Gypsy JazzGypsy Mania plays the standards of Gypsy Jazz. But guitarist Glen Helgeson composes music that makes Gypsy Mania’s Gypsy jazz a singular contribution to the music. Phil Nusbaum talked to Glen, and when he did, they were talking about Minor Swing, a Gypsy Jazz calling card tune.
2021-09-1908 min
Jazz88Kenne Thomas’ Lifeforce Plays Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis on Saturday August 28Kenne Thomas leads his band into Jazz Central in Minneapolis Saturday evening August 28 from 8 till 10 PM. Kenne is from Chicago, lived and played jazz in Japan and then took up residence in the Twin Cities. Kenne’s groups kinit together many stylistic ingredients, and the group is called Lifeforce. Why? That’s what Phil Nusbaum asked when he talked to Kenne.
2021-08-2408 min
Jazz88The Minneapolis Jazz Guitar Duo Entertains at Umbra in Minneapolis Next Thursday Through SaturdayDavid Martin and Serdar G comprise the MJGD - Minneapolis Jazz Guitar
Duo. The duo plays a lot of great standards. You might expect that of a
jazz group, but for this one, playing standards is a welcome change from
the players’ normal. David and Serdar talked to Phil Nusbaum about their
duet.
2021-08-2208 min
Jazz88Patty Peterson Presents Jazz Women All-Stars Streamed from the Dakota in Minneapolis Twice on Mother’s DayPatty Peterson streams Jazz Women All-Stars on Mother’s Day, May 9. The show is available by streaming at 3PM and 7PM this Sunday. Patty gets her jazz inspiration from her mother, Jeannie, who was a jazz singer and vocalist. Patty says that some of her mother’s words motivate her.
2021-05-0208 min
Jazz88North Central University Jazz Streams its Stuff Next Thursday at Jazz Central in MinneapolisDespite the pandemic, the North Central University Jazz ensemble has been getting ready for a virtual show at Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis. It is 8 to 10 PM on March 18. Peter Shu is the director of the ensemble. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Peter addressed what it is like to lead an ensemble of players whose background is not Jazz, but rock.
2021-03-1408 min
Jazz88North Central University Jazz Streams its Stuff Next Thursday at Jazz Central in MinneapolisDespite the pandemic, the North Central University Jazz ensemble has been getting ready for a virtual show at Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis. It is 8 to 10 PM on March 18. Peter Shu is the director of the ensemble. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Peter addressed what it is like to lead an ensemble of players whose background is not Jazz, but Rock.
2021-03-1408 min
Jazz88What Would Monk Do Streams Thelonious Monk-Inspired Jazz Saturday March 13 from Jazz Central in MinneapolisWhat Would Monk Do? Interprets the work of the legendary Jazz composer Thelonious Monk, and plays original music reminiscent of Monk. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, trumpeter Steve Kenny talked about approaching the Thelonious Monk compositional style.
2021-03-0908 min
Jazz88Acoustic Concussion Highlights Work of Select jazz Masters Streaming from Jazz Central Studios Feb 6The five members Acoustic Concussion, JT and Chris Bates, Brad Holden, Joe Mayo and Brian do a lot of things in jazz. But when they gather to perform as Acoustic Concussion, the focus is on Sam Rivers, Ornette Coleman and Lee Konitz. In a conversation with Phil Nusbaum, Brian Holden, one of the saxophone players, explained the reason for the focus.
2021-01-3108 min