Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto, a master pianist, composer and arranger, is one of the most important Brazilian musicians working today. Currently based in Seattle, Washington, he has throughout his career been closely affiliated with the Brazilian master Hermeto Pascoal.  He was an integral part of Pascoal's group from 1977 to 1992, where he fine-tuned his artistry, performing around the world and co-producing several legendary records. 

Jovino’s personal style is a creative blend of energetic grooves, deep harmonies, telepathic improvisation, lyrical melodies and great ensemble playing, always inspired and informed by the colorful richness of Brazilian music.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students - SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Jovino Santos Neto (piano, flute, melodica); Ben Thomas (vibraphone, bandoneon); Tim Carey (bass); Mark Ivester (drums); Jeff Busch (percussion).

Website: www.jovisan.net

The Josh Rawlings Trio delivers a masterclass in musical intuition, built on a brotherhood that began at Cornish College of the Arts in 2001. After nearly 25 years of performing together, pianist Josh Rawlings, bassist Nate Omdal, and drummer Adam Kessler share a seamless rapport that allows them to pivot effortlessly between deep jazz grooves, swinging blues, and soulful pop classics. Their seasoned musicianship is anchored by the leadership of Josh Rawlings, a Grammy-nominated and Platinum-certified artist known for his signature piano work on major global hits.

The JRT brings passionate energy and musical chemistry to each and every song they play. Together they specialize in captivating and genuine performances reminiscent of Trios by the likes of Oscar Peterson, Gene Harris, and Bill Evans. Their evolution is documented across two acclaimed albums, Climbing Stairs (2008) and Swell (2016), which showcase the versatility and heart they bring to every stage. Attendees can expect a captivating evening of genuine artistry and the high-energy connection only a decades-long partnership can produce.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students - SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Josh Rawlings (piano), Nate Omdal (bass), Adam Kessler (drums)

Website: www.joshrawlings.com

Duende Libre is an award-winning jazz trio whose original music combines jazz virtuosity with roots rhythms from Cuba, Brazil, and West Africa into a “strikingly authentic blend.” Each having apprenticed with direct descendants and master musicians of these traditions, they consider themselves disciples of their teachers. The result: A euphoric new jazz that honors its historical roots, pushing open the boundaries of genre to invoke a powerful sonic freedom.

Comprising core members Alex Chadsey (bandleader and keys), Jeff Busch (percussion), and Farko Dosumov (bass), Duende Libre is collectively influenced by the trio’s direct connections with master musicians including Clinton Fearon, Dudley Nesbitt, Dave Hassel, Jesse Bannister, Chucho Valdés, Carlos Santana, Martha Gonzalez, Quetzal Flores, and Joe Santiago

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students SOLD OUT

Lineup: Alex Chadsey (piano), Farko Dusumov (bass), Jeff Busch (drums), Pedro Vargas (percussion).

Website: www.duendelibre.com

Kareem Kandi is a highly sought-after saxophonist, composer, and educator from the Pacific Northwest, known for his warm and versatile sound deeply rooted in jazz, blues, classical, and funk traditions. He performs extensively across the U.S. and internationally, both as a bandleader with The Kareem Kandi Band and as a sideman, having shared stages with renowned artists like Patti LaBelle, The Temptations, and Ali Jackson.

A graduate of Cornish College of the Arts, Kandi's musical foundation was shaped by studying with and performing alongside Pacific Northwest jazz legends. Beyond performing, he is a dedicated educator, teaching at the Tacoma School of the Arts, leading private lessons and jazz classes, and directing The Kareem Kandi World Orchestra (trio) and The Tacoma Jazz Association. Kandi is also a performing artist and clinician for Conn-Selmer and D'addario Woodwinds.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Kareem Kandi (saxophone), Greg Feingold (bass), Jacques Willis (d).

Website: www.kkworldorchestra.org

Since she burst on the jazz scene in 2013, the award-winning, Seattle-based vocalist, composer, producer, and legacy activist Eugenie Jones has been one of our time's most evocative and evolving artists.

NEA Jazz Master and bassist Reggie Workman described Jones as "an extraordinary singer, songwriter, and a source of light we're fortunate to experience." Thomas Staudter of The Gazette/New York lauded Jones for her "tremendous talent, tireless energy, and buoyant spirit," and Mark Holston of Jazziz praised Jones for her "…keen sense of phrasing, [which] makes her extremely persuasive. Like a veteran horn soloist, she slides effortlessly from one octave to the next, always landing on the right, pitch-perfect note."

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Eugenie Jones (vocals); Bob Antolin (ts,g); Nick Allison (p); Jonathan Green (b); Greg Campbell (d).

Website: www.eugeniejones.com

Peter Bernstein was born in New York City in 1967. He has been playing and recording since 1990 when he first appeared on recordings with Lou Donaldson and the organ trio of Larry Goldings and Bill Stewart, a group still touring and recording today.

Peter played in Lou Donaldson's group for 10 years as well as performing and recording with Joshua Redman's group 1995-97. Other associations and collaborations include Jimmy Cobb, Dr. Lonnie Smith, David Fathead Newman, Brad Mehldau, Etta Jones, Melvin Rhyne, Diana Krall, Bobby Hutcherson, Lee Konitz, Nicholas Payton, George Coleman, and Sonny Rollins. Peter has played on festival, concert, and club stages all over the world since the early 90's.

He has appeared on over 300 recordings with these musicians and many of his contemporaries as well as 14 records under his own name. These recordings have featured many of his own compositions and musicians such as Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, Greg Hutchinson, Jimmy Cobb, Bill Stewart, Larry Grenadier, Gerald Clayton, Sullivan Fortner, Peter Washington, Doug Weiss, and Joe Farnsworth among others.

His latest recording on the Smoke Sessions label is "Better Angels", and features Brad Mehldau, Vicente Archer, and Al Foster.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets -SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Peter Bernstein (guitar), Tony Foster (piano), Michael Glynn (bass), Matt Jorgensen (drums).

Website: www.peterbernsteinmusic.com

JAZZ OVERHAUL is a jazz quartet that covers rock songs from the renowned Seattle grunge music scene that gave the world Nirvana, Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam. Jazz Overhaul has created arrangements from these classic bands, in addition to other popular music from the past 30 years, and has “overhauled” them to fit into the jazz structure. The group features Cliff Colon on sax, Jake Sele on keys, Osama Afifi on bass, and D’Vonne Lewis on drums. This isn’t your normal jazz quartet. This is a JAZZ OVERHAUL!

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets. SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Cliff Colon (sax), Jake Sele (piano,) Osama Afifi (bass), and D’Vonne Lewis (drums).

Website: www.jazzoverhaul.com

We’re proud to present Cory Weeds, a jazz powerhouse! Weeds wears many hats, all with exceptional skill: he's an award-winning saxophonist known for his warm, impactful sound; a visionary record label owner (Cellar Music Group, including the Grammy-winning Cellar Live imprint); and a dedicated impresario who has shaped the jazz scene across North America.

From his legendary Cellar Jazz Club to booking Frankie's Jazz Club and leading the "New York With Weeds" tours, Cory Weeds is consistently at the heart of vital jazz experiences. With over 20 albums as a leader and more than 200 as a producer, his contributions to jazz are immense. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the artistry of "the hardest working man in jazz business."

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Cory Weeds (saxophone), Chris Hazelton (Hammond B3), David Rourke (guitar), Rudy Petschauer (drums).

Website: www.coryweeds.com

Get ready for an inspiring performance by Cat Toren, the Brooklyn-based, award-winning pianist, improviser, and composer praised for her "vibrant, earthy and spiritual" sound (UK Vibe). Cat's music beautifully blends "bold atmospheric abstraction and fluid melodies" with "deep human warmth and creative fire" (Coastal Jazz and Blues Society).

With six albums under her belt, including the highly acclaimed Scintillating Beauty and her latest, Sea/Sky, Cat Toren's inventive approach to jazz and improvisation is truly something to experience. As a JUNO Award winner and a respected composer, her artistry is not to be missed!

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Cat Toren (piano), Xavier Del Castillo (saxophone), Aram Bajakian (oud, guitar), Jake Leckie (bass), Steven Crammer (drums).

Website: www.cattoren.com

An evening with Naomi Moon Siegel, the award-winning trombonist and composer described by JAZZIZ as having "crafted a truly unique aesthetic." Siegel takes the trombone beyond expectations, weaving together modern jazz, fusion, and world music with incredible depth.

Join her and the Naomi Moon Siegel Ensemble for an unforgettable performance of original music, featuring deep grooves, soaring melodies, and captivating improvisation. You'll hear why she's a recipient of the Jazz Journalists Association Jazz Hero Award and has been lauded for her critically acclaimed albums.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Naomi Moon Siegel (trombone), Ray Larsen (trumpet), Elias Hampton (guitar), Kelsey Mines (bass), Chris Icasiano (drums).

Website: www.naomimoonsiegel.com

A fixture on the New York music scene for 30 years, guitarist John Hart has distinguished himself as a band leader with 16 CDs - including releases on such prestigious labels as Blue Note and Concord. John has also appeared on 100-plus CDs as a sideman.

Pianist/Composer Jake Hart is an emerging artist recently signed with Sunnyside Records. Jake has performed in a multitude of international competitions and holds a Bachelor of Music from University of Miami’s Frost School of Music and a Master of Music from Salem College.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: John Hart (guitar), Jake Hart (piano), Steven Kirsty (bass), Rudy Petschauer (drums).

The Jerry Steinhilber Trio tantalizes the senses of their audience members, not with the expected “standard after standard” set list, but with distinctive mash-ups of influential jazz masterpieces from Sonny Rollins, Bill Evans, Joe Lovano, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane and others that interweave a combination of well-known compositions with works deserving wider appreciation within the jazz canon.

Steinhilber’s own compositions punctuate the trio’s well-received live sets along with heavy doses of collaborative improvisation.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Jerry Steinhilber (drums), King Dahl (bass), Josh Cook (sax).

Website: www.jerrysteinhilber.com

Please join us for the Jazz Center of Bellingham's Fall Season kickoff with an Open House on Wednesday, September 3rd at 6:30pm! This open house will feature live jazz and a raffle for season tickets, individual shows and merch as well as ways to support the Jazz Center's mission. Please join us at the Firehouse Arts and Events Center in Fairhaven!

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: Admission is free but it is likely that we will reach capacity. Please reserve a ticket here: Reservations - SOLD OUT!

Pre-Season Friday Concert!

"Migrant Voices," is an improvisational music album by world renowned Canadian musicians Itamar Erez (guitarist and pianist) and Hamin Honari (percussionist). This unique project blends diverse cultural influences, highlighting the spontaneous interplay between guitar and percussion.

“Migrant Voices” is a collaboration representing symbolic acts of defiance against animosity, signaling the possibility of a future based on peaceful coexistence. Itamar and Hamin demonstrate that ordinary people can rise above political conflict and work toward a shared purpose. It’s a project that hopes to empower others to explore similar avenues for grassroots diplomacy and bridge-building.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Itamar Erez (guitar) and Hamin Honari (percussion).

Website: www.itamarerez.com/migrant-voices

Drummer Kelby MacNayr was unable to secure his visa in time for this show, however we were fortunate to schedule the Thomas Marriott Quartet playing the music from his newest album, Screen Time. Thank you for your ongoing support of the Jazz Center!

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Thomas Marriott (tp); Matt Williams (p); Michael Glynn (b); Jerry Steinhilber (d).

Website: https://thomasmarriott.net/

SKERIK has toured with the following:

Sadhappy, Critters Buggin, Ponga, Wayne Horvitz, Roger Waters, Les Claypool, Tuatara, Garage a Trois, The Dead Kenny Gs, Black Frames, Crack Sabbath, Maelstrom Trio, Bandalabra, Mad Season, Beta Popes, Omaha Diner, Syncopated Taint Septet, LORBO, Khu-eeX, Sound Cipher, DRKWAV, Skerik Band, OG GAT (original Garage a Trois) Stanton and Skerik’s Emerald Quintet, Robert Walter, Bobby Previte, Jamie Saft, MMOB, New York Composers Orchestra, Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey, Headhunters, True Loves, Mctuff, Master Musicians of Jajouka, etc.

SKERIK has performed with/and or recorded with:

Fred Wesley, Mike Clark, Charlie Hunter, Russell Batiste, Bernard Purdie, Zigaboo Modeliste, Clyde Stubblefield, Stewart Copeland, George Porter Jr, The Meters, The Funky Meters, Dumpstaphunk, James Singleton, Johnny Vidacovich, Big Sam, Maurice Brown, Trombone Shorty, Midnight Disturbers Brass Band, SUNN, Nels Cline, Peter Apfelbaum, Medeski Martin and Wood, REM, Wil Blades, Scott Amendola, Jeff Parker, NORDRA, Monika Khot, Zen Mother, Zach Hill, Keefus Ciancia, Jon Brion, Galactic, Lettuce, John Scofield, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Om Johari, Stone Gossard, Pearl Jam, Eyvind Kang, Randall Dunn, Bernie Worrell, Sean Lennon, Ozomatli, Brownout, Primus, Chris Cornell, Wolves in the Throne Room, Cyril Neville, Ivan Neville, Ian Neville, Warren Haynes, Kidd Jordan, Jonathan Freilich, Helen Gillet, Eric Harland, Reggie Watts, Karl Berger, Steven Bernstein, Maceo Parker, Donald Harrison, Leo Nocentelli, Pee Wee Ellis, Adrian Belew, Calvin Weston, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, MonoNeon, Marco Benevento, David Torkanowsky, Andrew Bird, Ani Difranco, John Medeski, Green Sky Bluegrass, Leftover Salmon, Nth Power, Jennifer Hartswick, Nikki Glaspie, Industrial Revelation, Radioactive, Antibalas, Cory Henry, Scott Metzger, Joe Russo, Simon Lott, Ween, Tim Young, Hella, Barrett Martin, Kayo Dot, Todd Sickafoose, Bheki Mseleku, Aubrey Oaki, Mose Fan Fan, Somo Somo, Remy Ongala and Orchestre Matimila, The Coup, Shock G, Josh Roseman, Shazhad Ismaily, Marc Ribot, Larry Coryell, Screaming Trees, Squirell Nut Zippers, Sex Mob, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, The Word, North Mississippi Allstars, Mino Cinelu, Bob Stewart, Bill Ware, Buckethead, Ralph Carney, DJ Logic, Get It Gurl, Bonnie Raitt, Ruth Brown, Howard Tate, Maxi Priest, Steve Berlin, David Hidalgo, Steve Kimock, Corrosion of Conformity, DJ Olive, Elemental, DJ Riz, Doze Green, Ernest Ranglin, Yoshida Brothers, Dave Ellis, Gene Ween, Soulive, Allen Stone, M.I.R.V. My Name, Melvin Gibbs, performed on latin grammy award winning record by Nando Reis “Jardim-Pomar”, and many more…

SKERIK has also recorded on over 200 records as a saxophonist, horn section, keyboardist, etc

SKERIK and his bands have been placed in feature films, independent films, TV, theatre, dance, etc

SKERIK has performed in major festivals all over the world mostly as a band member.

SKERIK owns a studio in Seattle and records regularly as a session musician, horn arranger and soloist. He also continues to tour all over the world.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Skerik (ts); Tim Kennedy (p); Geoff Harper (b); D’Vonne Lewis (d).

Website: www.skerikmusic.com

Trumpeter, composer and educator Jared Hall hails from Spokane, Washington. He studied at Whitworth University, the Indiana University Jacobs School Of Music and the University Of Miami’s Frost School Of Music, where he received the degree Doctor of Musical Arts in 2015. His primary teachers include Terence Blanchard, Joey Tartell, Dan Keberle, Whit Sidener, David Baker and Brian Lynch, under whom he pursued his doctoral studies. Hall is the winner of the 2013 National Trumpet Competition – Jazz Division, and has performed and recorded with Paquito D’Rivera, Bob Hurst, John Daversa, Arturo Sandoval, Maria Schneider, Vincent Herring, Peter Erskine, Dave Liebman, Alan Pasqua, Brian Lynch, Ira Sullivan, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Terence Blanchard, Rick Margitza, Wycliffe Gordon, David Binney, Johnny Mathis, George Benson, Gloria Estefan, Fred Hersch, Melissa Aldana, Shelly Berg, the South Florida Jazz Orchestra, and the Frost Concert Jazz Band.

Hall’s recording credits include his albums Influences (Origin Records, 2024), Seen on the Scene (Origin Records, 2021) and Hallways (Hollistic MusicWorks, 2017). Other recordings include Home at Last (Sierra Music, 2024), Inventions (OA2 Records, 2021), Cheap Thrills: The Music of Rick Margitza (Summit, 2020), North By Freaking Northwest (Skymuse, 2019), Jazz & The Philharmonic (OKeh, 2014), With Love (Jeremy Fox, 2014), Inspiration: A Tribute to Nat King Cole (George Benson, 2013), and others.

This band will feature UNT O’clock Band lead alto saxophonist Natalie Wagner (Joshua Redman), pianist Ben Markley (Terell Stafford, Ari Hoenig), UNT O’clock Band bassist Kai Wagner (Maria Schneider, Alison Miller), and Seattle based drummer, John Bishop (Lee Konitz, Bobby Hutcherson, Dr. Lonnie Smith).

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Jared Hall (tp); Natalie Wagner (as); Ben Markley (p); Kai Wagner (b); John Bishop (d).

Website: www.jaredhall.net

Pacific Northwest drummer, composer, and educator Christian Casolary reunites his Transcendence Quartet for a night of music that explores the relationship between darkness and light. This group features all-star musical masters playing a mix of original compositions and lesser-known jazz standards. Beauty, raw expression, gentle moments, and heavy cosmic swirls… buckle up for the Transcendence Quartet.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Mike Allen (ts); Miles Black (p); Jeff Johnson (b); Christian Casolary (d).

Website: www.christiancasolary.com

Francesco Crosara is a Seattle based Italian jazz pianist, composer and educator performing in a variety of formations. Crosara’s original music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical Conservatory training in Rome, bouncy lyrical expression along with strong Latin influences. His main jazz piano influences are Chick Corea, Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock.

Crosara stands among the European-bred jazz greats, performing over the years with the likes of Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, Von Freeman, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Lilian Terry, and more. His recordings have featured a multicultural and international array of musicians. He has performed at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy.

Since 2017, the Pacific Northwest can claim Crosara’s talents, too. He was featured on National Public Radio performing at the 2024 KNKX 88.5 FM Studio Session series. Crosara’s trio was selected to perform at the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle, and his creations were featured in the trend-setting series Earshot Jazz: The Second Century (2019 and 2020) for their bold and innovative music composition and video editing work. Equally adept with acoustic and electric jazz concepts, Crosara routinely headlines trios and quartets with the area top musicians.

Crosara’s latest CD project, “Circular Motion”, released in 2024 by Origin/OA2 Records, features all original material including fresh interpretations of some of his earlier repertoire, which was composed over a period of 40 years. Crosara has produced 6 additional international jazz albums over the last three decades ranging from straight-ahead to fusion and Latin, and featuring guest artist, Chicago tenor sax legend Von Freeman, plus Lilian Terry, Dave Marr, Rusty Jones, Paulinho Garcia, Dean Taba, Noel Okimoto, Yasushi Gonjo, Larry Marshall, Miles Jackson, Eric Kurtz, and more. Crosara’s 2000 album “Colors” received 4 stars from Down Beat magazine.

Be sure to arrive early! Kevin Woods will bring his WWU student ensemble to perform 5:45-6:15 prior to this concert! It will be included with the purchase of a ticket for tonight’s show.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Francesco Crosara (p); Alexey Nikolaev (ts); Farko Dosumov (b); D'Vonne Lewis (d).

Website: www.francescojazz.com

Swing Into Spring with The Mike Allen Quartet!

The Ottawa Citizen calls Vancouver's Mike Allen "Canada's top jazz saxophonist". Mike and his magnificent band featuring Miles Black-piano, Michael Glynn-bass and Julian MacDonough-drums are excited to swing their way through a night of classic jazz tunes dedicated to Springtime: You Must Believe in Spring, Spring Is Here, It Might As Well Be Spring, Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most, Up Jumped Spring, Joy Spring, Swing Spring, and more.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 student Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Mike Allen (ts); Miles Black (p); Michael Glynn (b); Julian MacDonough (d).

Website: www.mikeallenjazz.com

Ann Reynolds and Tobi Stone bring you their original music to Bellingham with a stunning quartet.  Ann and Tobi have been playing together for over 25 years and have each been developing unique voices through their compositions. Joining Ann and Tobi for this concert are Heather Chriscaden on bass and Chris Icasiano on drums.

Ann Reynolds began playing piano at age 7 and has been composing since 2000. Her musical background includes study of classical,  jazz, and Cuban music. Her yearly journeys to Cuba, starting in 2000, lead her to compose in Cuban styles and produce 2 highly acclaimed CDs of original music with her group Clave Gringa. In 2021, she recorded 4 jazz compositions, honoring great women composers, with Kelsey Mines on bass and Chris Icasiano on drums.  “Inspired by Women Composers”, was awarded the Earshot Golden Ear award for Best Northwest recording of 2021.

Tobi Stone (tenor sax and clarinet) has spent the last 30 years pursuing music performance, touring, recording, teaching lessons, classes and workshops. She specializes in Classical and Jazz music education. She has also studied and played many different styles and genres including West African, Klezmer, Django era- Roma swing, Funk, Pop, Reggae, Blues and Folk. Her compositions have been recorded and performed across the US and Europe with Reptet, The Tiptons Saxophone Quartet and Drums, and The Jefferson Rose Band.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Ann Reynolds (piano), Tobi Stone (sax/clarinet), Heather Chriscaden (bass), Chris Icasiano (drums)

Website: www.annreynoldsmusic.com

www.tobistone.com

Born in Washington, DC, where he began playing piano at age 5, Roman then moved to Paris with his family at age eight. Roman's interest in Jazz arose during his time in Paris learning solfege and music theory at The Scola Cantorum. Moving back to the States in 2018, he further developed his craft in the jazz programs at Bellevue High School and Bellevue College alongside his own self-teaching. During these years Roman received numerous awards and accolades for his playing, including a Young Arts National Foundation of the Arts Jazz Piano and Jazz Composition award as well as two Downbeat Student Music Awards in 2024. Today Roman is working his way into the Seattle Jazz Scene, performing throughout the city with many seasoned professionals such as Joe Farnsworth and Sara Hanahan, as well as working on a project comprised of his own original material.

The trio's style is a creative blend of harmonically rich acoustic jazz which aims to push the envelope of musical exploration within a classic configuration. The Roman Goron Trio plays a diverse blend of standard repertoire as well as original arrangements and compositions by Roman and his group members.

Roman's trio has won multiple awards individually and as an ensemble, including Outstanding Trio at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and the Bellevue College Jazz Festival.Although he currently spends most of his time in Seattle, he still very much is a part of the national scene, traveling to and from his home as he sees fit.

Be sure to arrive early! Cat Toren will bring her WWU student ensemble to perform from 5:45-6:15 prior to this concert! It will be included with the purchase of a ticket for tonight’s show.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Roman Goron (piano); Jesse Kuras (upright bass); Sun McElderry (drums).

Website: www.romangoron.com

Saxophonist/multi-instrumentalist and composer Nick Biello is developing a reputation as an exciting and artful musician.

Nick has shared the stage with world-class artists, such as Slide Hampton, Cedar Walton, the Jimmy Heath Big Band, Rich Perry, Phil Markowitz, Steve Davis, Orrin Evans and the Captain Black Big Band, Clarence Penn, John Benitez, Henry Cole, Harvie S, Victor Bailey, Jaimoe Johnson and Butch Trucks of the Allman Brothers. 

Nick has been recorded on hundreds of albums, from his own original projects to his work as a sideman for other artists. His debut album, "Vagabond Soul," released in 2017 on the  Truth Revolution Recording Collective, features Phil Markowitz, John Benitez, Clarence Penn, Paul Jones, Andrew Renfroe, and Vincent Lionti.  “Between Light and Shadow”, a collection of original compositions for the chordless trio format, will be released in May of 2024 on La Reserve Records and features Biello’s working trio of Alex Tremblay on bass and Peter Kronreif on drums.

In demand as a composer and arranger, Nicholas has written arrangements that have been performed by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Dave Koz, and Kelly Rowland. His work has been televised on networks such as ABC and ESPN, and heard in venues in Las Vegas, L.A., and New York City. He has worked with members of the famed Apollo Theater house band in music composition and production.

Nick is a D'addario Woodwinds Artist and uses D'addario reeds and accessories.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets

Lineup: Nick Biello (as); John Hansen (p); Michael Glynn (b); Julian MacDonough (d).

Website: www.nickbiellomusic.com

Brian Kirk presents a tribute to a master vibraphonist/multi-instrumentalist: Cal Tjader

Brian Kirk is a Professor of Jazz, Electronic Music, Music Theory, Percussion at Seattle Central College, in Seattle. Son of Indianapolis Hall of Fame drummer and educator Dr. Willis Kirk, Brian grew up in San Francisco where he performed with Gladys Knight, Marlena Shaw, Joe Henderson, Bobby Hutcherson, Bishop Norman Williams, John Handy, and Jessica Williams.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Brian Kirk (vibraphone); David Joyner (piano); Osama Afifi (bass); Jeff Busch (drums); John Butorac (congas, bongos); Steve Jones (congas, bongos).

Website: www.kirkjazz.net

Cyrus Nabipoor is a trumpeter, composer, arranger and educator. A distinctive voice both on the horn and in his songwriting, Cyrus’ singular sound has garnered him international acclaim. He has been a featured festival artist at PDX Jazz, Cathedral Park, Montavilla Jazz, New Orleans French Quarter, and Chicago Instigation. To date, he has released 2 albums under his own name, and collaborated on numerous more. In addition to his self-titled work, Cyrus runs the Puddletown Stompers, is a member of Reb & The Good News, and remains active as a sideman.

An in-demand composer/arranger, Cyrus has had several works commissioned by Portland Jazz Composer’s Ensemble. Cyrus has produced horn tracks for major artists including Nicky Youre, Grace Enger, Maggie Koerner, Peach Tree Rascals, and David Hugo. He has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with a wide variety of artists including Jamison Ross, Elle King, Tarriona “Tank” Ball, Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson, James Singleton, Jason Marsalis, Steve Masakowski, Mike Dillon, Stanton Moore, Amina Scott & Nicole McCabe.

Cyrus has served on faculty at Loyola University New Orleans. He is an artist-in-residence at multiple Portland Public Schools, and runs a private trumpet studio.

Born and raised in Portland OR, Cyrus began his studies with Derek Sims & Alan Jones. He holds a B.M. from Loyola University New Orleans, where he graduated magna cum laude and was awarded outstanding undergraduate in both Jazz and Brass. While at Loyola, he studied with Nick Volz, Tony Dagradi and Jimbo Walsh. In 2015, Cyrus was awarded the International Trumpet Guild Jazz Scholarship. 

Cyrus is endorsed by Thane Trumpets.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students. Purchase advance tickets here

Lineup: Cyrus Nabipoor (trumpet); Jack Radsliff (guitar); Garrett Baxter (bass); Micah Hummel (drums).

Website: www.cyrusnabipoor.com

"Linus and Juicy" is back! The Jose 'Juicy' Gonzales Trio brings the Vince Guaraldi's holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, played in its entirety at the Firehouse!

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets. SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Jose "Juicy" Gonzales (piano, vocals); Michael Marcus (bass); Matt Jorgensen (drums).

Website: www.jose.band

Join us to show support for the Jazz Center of Bellingham’s educational program.

The evening will feature performances from student combos and the faculty.

Location: The Blue Room, 202 E Holly St 301 , #401, Bellingham, WA

Cost: FREE

Multi award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter, pianist and CBC Music national radio host Laila Biali has headlined festivals and venues spanning five continents from New York City’s Carnegie Hall to Beijing’s National Centre for the Performing Arts. In 2019, her eponymous release won a Juno for “Vocal Jazz Album of the Year,” and her 2020 Juno-nominated album, Out of Dust, received rave reviews. Her signature sound transcends genre as she “masterfully mixes jazz and pop, bringing virtuosity and unpredictability to songs that are concise and catchy” (Washington Post).

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students Purchase Advance Tickets SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Laila Biali (piano, vocals); Jane Bunnett (sax); Chris Symer bass; Ben Wittman (drums).

Website: www.lailabiali.com

"The impression given by Naomi Moon Siegel is that she is serenading the constellations. There’s an imagery inherent to her music that is greater than the calculus of the notes, much in the same way a certain collection of stars become meaningful in the context of their astronomical shape and name and story." - Dave Sumner, Best of 2019 Jazz on Bandcamp

Trombonist, composer and educator Naomi Moon Siegel has "crafted a truly unique aesthetic, combining elements of straightahead, fusion and modern jazz with world-music flavors in a way that sounds entirely of the 21st century" (JAZZIZ). A recipient of the Montana Arts Council Artist Innovation Award, Chamber Music America Performance Plus Grant, and Earshot Jazz Golden Ear Award, she has released two albums as a bandleader to critical acclaim.

The Naomi Moon Siegel Ensemble formed in 2016 after the release of Siegel’s critically acclaimed album Shoebox View to present the album’s compositions in live performance. Playing Siegel’s original music, the band employs deep grooves, soaring melodies, fantastical soundscapes, creative interplay, and improvisation investigating themes of grief, isolation, and connection amidst climate change.

Location: Firehouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Cost: $20 general, $10 students. Purchase advance tickets here SOLD OUT!

Lineup: Naomi Siegel (trombone); Marina Albero (piano); Ray Larsen (trumpet); Andy Coe (guitar); Kelsey Mines (bass); Chris Icasiano (drums).

Website: www.naomimoonsiegel.com