MAINSTAGE CONCERTS
Jazz Rising Star Vocalist Ekep Nkwelle + Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon
April 24, 2025 | 4:30pm & 7:30pm
Up and coming vocalist Ekep Nkwelle takes the stage ahead of the inimitable Wycliffe Gordon and the award-winning Compass Jazz Orchestra. Nkwelle's captivating voice commands the hall, and with Gordon’s unique vocal style and deep connection to the blues, this promises to be a soulful musical experience for all.
Count Basie Orchestra + Colombian Percussionist Samuel Torres
with Compass Jazz Orchestra
April 25, 2025 | 4:30pm & 7:30pm
Jazz grandeur and excellence are personified as the legendary institution the Count Basie Orchestra fills the stage with their truly unique and swinging style that has persisted throughout jazz history. And Latin Grammy Award-winning percussionist and composer Samuel Torres takes it away with the UNC Compass Jazz Orchestra.
Sullivan Fortner, Solo Piano
& the Jazz Festival All-Star Big Band featuring
Saxophonist Sarah Hanahan & Trumpeter Wayne Bergeron
April 26, 2025 | 4:30pm
Grammy Award-winning pianist Sullivan Fortner brings his uncompromising individualism to the solo piano to open this finale concert. The Jazz Festival All-Star Big Band sweeps in next joined by Sarah Hanahan, a NYC-based alto saxophonist who was recently named one of NPR Jazz Night in America’s 30 under 30 Youngbloods, and legendary trumpeter Wayne Bergeron, “a once in a lifetime lead trumpet player.”
