Sammons Jazz is the ONLY regular ongoing jazz performance series in the Dallas-Fort Worth area featuring local jazz artists. If you enjoy jazz, you'll probably enjoy this showcase of local jazz artists in an intimate, relaxed, non-commercial and smoke-free setting . . . and at a nominal price for the evening!
Since 1989, over 150 Dallas-based ensembles (featuring more than 900 artists) have performed in Sammons Jazz to a combined attendance of more than 8,000. Audience members have experienced all forms of jazz through Sammons Jazz, too - from Swing to Be-bop, from Dixieland to Fusion.
Sammons Jazz was founded in April of 1989, when a group of local jazz artists headed by Vicho Vicencio were deeply concerned about the decline of jazz music in Dallas -- both the lack of opportunities and venues for musicians and for jazz audiences. Their initial, modest series of four performances over an eight-month trial period was hugely successful and developed into today's monthly Sammons Jazz series.
And many patrons appreciate the smoke-free environment of Sammons Jazz.
James Gilyard, Artistic Director of Sammons Jazz.
SAMMONS JAZZ
SPRING 2008 EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2008 - 7:00 TO 10:00 P.M.
“Come Blow Your Horn”
Opening Group: Rodney Booth, a Dallas favorite returns to Sammons Jazz bringing his incomparable trumpet sound, along with his great band, along with a great band that includes Bill Lohr on piano, Lynn Seaton on bass and Mike Drake on drums.
Second Set: The Ron Jones Quartet will blow you away with the outstanding saxophone technique of Ron Jones leading this seasoned quartet that includes Scott Bucklin on piano, Nate Robinson on bass and Keith Banks on drums.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2008 - 7:00 TO 10:00 P.M.
“A Change of Pace”
Opening Group: The Steve Story Band makes its first appearance at Sammons Jazz with violinist Steve Story headlining a terrific group of jazz players.
Second Set: Matt Marantz & Roger Boykin -- Young jazz prodigy Matt Marantz collaborates with one of Dallas’ legendary jazz musicians, Roger Boykin. This is one you don’t want to miss.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2008 - 7:00 TO 10:00 P.M.
“Joy Spring”
Opening Group: The UNT Jazz Singers are back by popular demand, led by Professor Paris Rutherford. These are some of the most talented young jazz vocalists in the country. They will demonstrate their vocal chops individually and as a group.
Second Set: Robin Hackett is an accomplished vocalist and composer making her Sammons Jazz debut with her unique mix of jazz and urban folk music. Robin will be joined by Julie Bonk on piano, Chris Clark on bass, and Andrew Griffith on drums.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2008 - 7:00 TO 10:00 P.M.
“Annual Artistic Director’s Concert”
First Set: The Sammons Jazz Ensemble opens this annual blockbuster concert with Artistic Director James Gilyard on bass, Andrew Griffith on drums, and Arlington Jones on piano.
Featured Artist: Wycliffe Gordon, a master of the trombone, presents extraordinary straight ahead jazz for audiences ranging from high school music students to the patrons of Lincoln Center. He was a member of the Lincoln Center “Wynton Marsalis Septet” and has performed with most of the jazz luminaries throughout his long career. He is on the faculty of the Julliard School of Jazz, and was featured in the Ken Burns documentary on jazz.
All artists and programs subject to change.
email for information about concerts or membership:
Please call for tickets (no ticket orders by email!):
