JazzArts Charlotte Kicks Off a HOT Season 20

JazzArts Charlotte has announced the lineup for its 20th season of its signature series, JAZZ ROOM. And, according to the organization’s president and CEO, Lonnie Davis, this season is scorching. In fact, she defines it as “6 Sizzling Hot Summer Season JAZZ ROOM shows.”

“This is the first time that we have combined so many of the most popular names in jazz all in one season,” said Davis. “Each of these artists are dynamically diverse, many of whom are making their Charlotte debut at the JAZZ ROOM, with lots of new music to share with our audiences.

Among the performers scheduled to take the stage for JazzArts are Cyrille Aimée, named “one of the most promising jazz singers of her generation” by The Wall Street Journal and Ravi Coltrane, a saxophonist, bandleader, composer and son of N.C. native and jazz legend, John Coltrane. [See the full schedule below, as well as a link to tickets.]

Lonnie Davis

15 Years in the Making

For Davis, this is the culmination of many years of focus, vision and hard work. Moving to Charlotte from New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Davis discovered a city that was thriving, despite a notable lack of jazz music. She set her mind to changing that. And, it worked.

“For over a decade and a half, we have worked on building the relationships and partnerships that will allow us to execute all the new initiatives and continued programming our community will enjoy throughout this year,” said Davis. “Our goal is to amplify the work of JazzArts Charlotte, while also celebrating the music, and the people who make it happen.”

Davis credits JazzArts’ growth with its “consistency and focus on building a jazz community while providing high-quality jazz education and world-class performance experiences.” But, that’s just part of it. Another key has been a multi-generational approach.

“[We’ve invested] in our youth, nurturing the jazz musicians and leaders of tomorrow. Quite a few of our students have gone on to become professional jazz musicians, advancing music on stages regionally, nationally, and even internationally,” said Davis.

Ravi Coltrane

The Band’s Just Warming Up

While this season of the JAZZ ROOM may be a high-water mark for the organization, Davis assures that it’s a point of celebration, but not the destination.

“Our goal is to amplify the work of JazzArts Charlotte, while also celebrating the music and the people who make it happen,” said Davis. “I am grateful that residents of and visitors to this community continue to embrace jazz and support our work.”

Jazz is serious business … and Davis is serious about it. But, we couldn’t end our conversation without asking her five ridiculous questions. (Well, as ridiculous as she’d let us get away with.)

You play the flute. But, if you could instantly play one more instrument, what would it be? And, what would your stage name be?

I’d play electric bass. I also enjoy boxing, so my stage name would be “She Rumbles”.

What’s your favorite season in Charlotte?

Spring is my absolute favorite season in Charlotte because I love driving around seeing all the gorgeous crepe myrtles in bloom.

You are always on the go. What’s your morning regimen like to get started?

Morning meditation. Then the gym. After that, I am ready for whatever the day may bring.

When the Panthers play the Saints … which jersey do you wear?

I love Charlotte, but I will forever be a citizen of the “Who Dat” Nation.

Did all the “Sharon” roads/streets/lanes/avenues confuse you when you moved here?

Yes. And, one day, I would love to know who Sharon is/was.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Don’t worry, Lonnie. If you really want to know about “Sharon,” our friends, Nick de la Canal at WFAE and Charlotte historian Dr. Tom Hanchett, have got you covered right here.]

The JAZZ ROOM Season 20 featured artists include:

• Cyrille Aimée
  May 17, 6 and 9:15 p.m. | May 18, 7 and 9:15 p.m.
• Ravi Coltrane
  June 14, 6 and 8:15 p.m. | June 15, 7 and 9:15 p.m.
• Joey Alexander
  July 26, 6 and 8:15 p.m. | July 27, 7 and 9:15 p.m.
• Herlin Riley
  August 23, 6 and 8:15 p.m. | August 24, 7 and 9:15 p.m.
• The Pedrito Martinez Group
  September 27, 6 and 8:15 p.m. | September 28, 7 and 9:15 p.m.

 Tickets can be purchased at TheJazzArts.org or by calling 704-372-1000.