Welcome to Philadelphia Jazz Project
Gold Rush by Alexa Gold - A Mysterious Traveler Mixtape
Feb 12, 2020
During the summer of 2014, Leo Gadson of Producer's Guild, Adam Feldman of The Free Library of Philadelphia and Homer Jackson of PJP met to discuss an idea. The trio, teamed up to develop a daring, new performance series: The Mysterious Traveler Concert Series, which takes place in the Montgomery Auditorium at the Central Branch of the Free  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler All Stars - Spring 2019 Concert
Apr 8, 2019
Mysterious Traveler All Stars - Spring 2019 Concert Monday, May 6th, 2019 at 7:00 pm Parkway Central Library | Montgomery Auditorium 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189 ADMISSION IS FREE. The Mysterious Travelers All Stars continue to astound us with their magnificent growth as a team of composers and master musicians.  Read More....
First Friday! At the Barnes: Philly Makes The World Go Round
Dec 11, 2018
First Friday! At the Barnes: PHILLY MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND Featuring Alfie Pollitt & Tony TNT Jones January 4th, 2019 at 6pm The Barnes Foundation 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy Philadelphia, PA 19130 FOR TICKETS Philadelphia Jazz Project is thrilled to bring the magic to the new year as part of the Barnes Foundation’s First  Read More....
Drummers At JazzSpacePhilly
Dec 6, 2018
Swing In The Holidays w/ Joanna Pascale & 3Divas Monday, December 10th, 2018 at 7PM Drummers: 2152 East Norris Street Philadelphia, PA 19125 Swing In The Holidays is a cozy & fun house concert featuring incredible vocalist, Joanna Pascale and the super-swingin' powerhouse trio 3Divas: Jackie Warren (piano,) Amy Shook (bass) and  Read More....
Five Outdoor Performances At The Barnes
Jul 17, 2018
Philadelphia Jazz Project Presents Five Cool Performances To Beat The Heat!! On Thursday afternoons, from July19th to August 16th, PJP Presents Five Cool Performances Outside At The Barnes Foundation. Most important these events are FREE of charge. Bring a lunch and enjoy the music. The Schedule: July 19 | Saxophonist Larry Price  Read More....
Bohème Big Band Holiday Swing Thing
Dec 14, 2016
V. Shayne Frederick is a pianist, vocalist and poet. He and colleague, trumpeter, pianist and composer, Marcell Bellinger have been performing as the Bohéme Band: a retro Jazz ensemble with love of Swing, BeBop and Early R&B. Join them for a special holiday event, featuring a larger ensemble with Chris Coyle: bass and Khary Abdul-Shaeed:  Read More....
Announcing Sun Ra Mixtape # 5
Dec 6, 2016
In the fall of 2014, Philadelphia Jazz Project [PJP] developed a unique challenge for DJs, producers, electronic musicians, turntablists, singers, poets, and/or rappers, as well as solos by instrumentalists to honor the immeasurable imaginative genius of the late Philadelphia, visionary musician, philosopher, composer and band leader, Sun Ra  Read More....
For the Love of Germantown
Nov 2, 2016
For the Love of Germantown Philadelphia is home to strong musical traditions like Jazz, Gospel, DooWop, R&B, Rock and Hiphop. Our greatest strength has been the unexpected and wonderful blending and swirling of these traditions into new and fascinating musical creations. One place where this magic happens is Germantown. This community  Read More....
The Forerunners Salute Jymie & John
Sep 11, 2016
The Forerunners Saturday, September 24, 2016 at 8pm Painted Bride Art Center - 230 Vine Street, Phila., PA 19106 For Information & Tickets It was earlier this year, in January, at World Cafe Live, that PJP in collaboration with WXPN, WRTI, Ars Nova Workshop and NPR presented the nation's first glimpse of the music of Jymie Merritt  Read More....
Pablo Batista - Common Touch
Aug 30, 2016
Wednesday, September 14th, 2016 | 7pm Free Library of Philadelphia Parkway Central Library / Skyline Room 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189 RSVP Here Pablo Batista is an exceptional percussionist who effortlessly moves from traditional, or folkloric music to Pop, from R&B, or Jazz to Salsa. He has worked with  Read More....
Taji Nahl - On Facing East
Jul 7, 2016
July 14th, 2016, 8:00pm Facing East: Islamic Influences In Jazz International House 3701 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Tickets: $15 in advance, more at the door Purchase Tickets Here Philadelphia Jazz Project In collaboration with The New Africa Center, present Facing East: A concert celebrating Islamic influences  Read More....
First Friday Rent Party - Lili Añel
Jul 2, 2016
First Friday Rent Party Series August 5th, 2016 - 7:30PM | Lili Añel | Celebrating Florida Arch Street Meeting House 320 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast,  Read More....
Actress/Singer: Joilet Harris Talks RetroLove
Jun 14, 2016
RetroLove June 29th & 30th, 2016 at 7:00PM Drake Theater | 1512 Spruce Street | Phila., PA 19102 Joilet Harris is a Philadelphia treasure. Her searing portrait of Lena Younger in the Arden Theater’s production of A Raisin in the Sun and her Barrymore award-winning turn as Caroline Thibodeaux in Caroline, or  Read More....
First Friday Rent Party - Tony Jones
Jun 13, 2016
First Friday Rent Party Series July 1st, 2016 - 7:30PM | Tony Jones | Celebrating Georgia Arch Street Meeting House 320 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and  Read More....
Composer/Musical Director: Monnette Sudler Talks RetroLove
May 22, 2016
RetroLove June 29th & 30th, 2016 at 7:00PM Drake Theater | 1512 Spruce Street | Phila., PA 19102 Grammy nominated composer/jazz guitarist/vocalist/bandleader Monnette Sudler is known as the “First Lady of Jazz Guitar.” Ms Sudler began in the tradition of avant-garde Jazz, playing with artists like, Sunny Murray, David Murray,  Read More....
Happy Birthday Sun Ra!!
May 22, 2016
May 22, 2016 - May 30, 1993 102 years ago today, stars fell on Alabama and out of the debris emerged a brown baby boy, who would be named Herman Poole Blount. We knew him as the intergalactic traveler, philosopher and master musician, Sun Ra. To celebrate his birthday, we share PJP Mixtape Series - Sun Ra Edition Vol 3, featuring  Read More....
The Intersection of Jazz & HipHop
Apr 22, 2016
THE OHENE SAVANT CONCERT HAS BEEN REVISED. OHENE SAVANT WILL NOT APPEAR. On April 29th, at the Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center in Manayunk, PJP presents A Concert At The Intersection of Jazz & HipHop. The event features the lyrical prowess of Philadelphia rapper/poets MadSwayzie and Raphael Xavier, as well as the  Read More....
What Is RetroLove?
Apr 4, 2016
Retro Love June 29th & 30th, 2016 at 7:00PM Drake Theater | 1512 Spruce Street | Phila., PA 19102 Beth Feldman Brandt is a poet whose writing has investigated such diverse themes as old maps, herbal remedies and, now, dating before the Internet. She is the author of “Sage” and “Solace”, both collaborations  Read More....
First Friday Rent Party - V. Shayne Frederick
Apr 2, 2016
2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and West. This activity changed the country culturally, politically and socially. PJP is partnering with the Arch Street Meetinghouse, celebrating this milestone with  Read More....
Ohene Savant - At The Intersection of Jazz & Hiphop
Mar 25, 2016
On April 29th, at the Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center in Manayunk, PJP presents Ohene Savant - Year of the Savant. This concert, at the intersection of Jazz & Hiphop, features the music and lyrical prowess of Philadelphia’s returning son, rapper, musician, composer, producer and writer, Ohene Savant. He will be joined on  Read More....
AfroTaino Presents Daymé Arocena
Mar 22, 2016
AfroTaino Productions is a Philadelphia-based concert and events presenter/producer and marketing firm with a goal of sharing the vibrant world of global arts with local audiences and organizations. With 11 years under their belts they have collaborated with organizations like the National Council of La Raza, Mural Arts Program, National Public  Read More....
If You Missed Them - Orkestra Rumpilezz
Mar 16, 2016
On Friday, July 31, 2015, Philadelphia experienced for the first time, the powerful, musical magic of Orkestra Rumpilezz, led by the remarkable, saxophonist, composer, conduct and educator, Letieres Leite. On their very first U.S. tour, this Brazilian big band, by way of the state of Bahia and the city of Salvador, joined by Afro-Cuban  Read More....
In Other Great Migration News
Mar 15, 2016
IN OTHER GREAT MIGRATION NEWS: 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and West. People like Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy, Percy and Tootie Heath, Cat Anderson, Ray Charles, Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Nina Simone,  Read More....
Announcing Sun Ra Mixtape # 2
Mar 13, 2016
In the fall of 2014, Philadelphia Jazz Project developed a unique challenge for DJs, producers, electronic musicians, turntablists, singers, poets, and/or rappers, as well as solos by instrumentalists to honor the immeasurable imaginative genius of the late Philadelphia, visionary musician, philosopher, composer and band leader, Sun Ra [1914 to  Read More....
First Friday Rent Party - Chris Stevens
Mar 10, 2016
2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and West. This activity changed the country culturally, politically and socially. PJP is partnering with the Arch Street Meetinghouse, celebrating this milestone with  Read More....
First Friday Rent Party Series
Mar 5, 2016
Coming up in 2016, PJP has some great events in store for you. Most important, is that 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and West. People like Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy, Percy and Tootie Heath, Cat Anderson, Ray  Read More....
Coming Up In 2016
Feb 24, 2016
Coming up in 2016, PJP has some great events in store for you. Most important, is that 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great Migration: The historic period when millions of Black Americans left the South and moved to the Northeast, Midwest and West. This activity changed, the country culturally, politically and socially.  Read More....
Jazz Night In America - Christian McBride
Feb 18, 2016
In case you missed it, a few weeks ago, NPR's Jazz Night In America captured Christian McBride, the host of the show in performance right here in his own hometown of Philadelphia. The performance was his Civil Rights Era celebration, The Movement Revisited from the Merriam Theater of the Kimmel Center. The piece uses the words of Martin Luther  Read More....
PhillyCAM Sessions - Electricity
Feb 16, 2016
There's more Jazz on local television as, Philadelphia Jazz Project, Turtle Studios and PhillyCAM present a diverse collection of performances by Philadelphia musicians who demonstrate their unique interpretations of the term “Electricity.” Featuring hot performances by artists like trombonist and Center City Jazz Festival creator  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - William "Brother Wali" Bickley
Feb 16, 2016
Mysterious Travelers 2: Great Migrations - a collaboration between The Free Library of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Jazz Project. Back by overwhelming popular demand! FREE concerts every fourth Monday night from October 2015 through May 2016, audiences will hear from veteran, as well as up-and-coming musicians who are shaping the future sounds  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Madison Rast
Jan 15, 2016
Mysterious Travelers 2: Great Migrations - a collaboration between The Free Library of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Jazz Project. Back by overwhelming popular demand! FREE concerts every fourth Monday night from October 2015 through May 2016 audiences will hear from veteran, as well as up-and-coming musicians who are shaping the future sounds of  Read More....
Swing Jam With DivaNation
Dec 31, 2015
The ladies of DivaNation, in collaboration with The Studio at Take the Lead, present an intriguing event. Swing Jam: A live music event for a dancing crowd Friday, January 15, 2016 8pm - Midnite (Doors 7:30) Studio at Take the Lead 4701 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19143 Tickets: Click Here A BYOB Event PJP recently spoke with  Read More....
The Music Of Jymie Merritt And The Forerunners
Dec 29, 2015
In March of 2015, WRTI, WXPN and the Philadelphia Jazz Project collaborated with NPR’s Jazz Night In America to present Home Cooking: Celebrating The Philadelphia Jazz Organ Tradition. [Jazz Night In America is NPR’s popular radio series hosted by Philadelphia’s own, Jazz bassist Christian McBride.] The Home Cooking concert  Read More....
Happiest Of Holidays
Dec 24, 2015
2015 has been a great year for PJP! From September 2015 to December 2015, our season has been full and rich. Great performances. Great audience responses. From last January to the Fall of 2015, we also did some great things. ▪ We presented Love Notes for Valentine's Day at the Arch Street Meeting House. ▪ We showcased some awesome  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler Mixtape
Dec 22, 2015
In early 2014, Leo Gadson of Producers Guild, Adam Feldman of the Free Library of Philadelphia and Homer Jackson of the Philadelphia Jazz Project met to discuss a new concert series. It was called the Mysterious Traveler Concert Series. From Sept 2014 to May of 2015, the series presented monthly concerts, showcasing young and not so young,  Read More....
Holy Sea Mixtape
Dec 22, 2015
In September 2015, PJP was in preparation mode for the 7th and final performance of our 7x7 Concert Series at Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center [VIPARC] in Manayunk. While the series showcased an eclextic array of performances, it also introduced Philadelphia audience to this beautiful and new performance space. The featured  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Anthony DeCarlo
Dec 3, 2015
Trenton made guitarist Anthony DeCarlo, and Philadelphia has taken him. A founder of South Philadelphia’s emergent musical hub, Tasker House, DeCarlo stands at the center of growing community of young musicians. Anthony DeCarlo has performed in four high profile projects with the Philadelphia Jazz Project. On Halloween night in 2013, Anthony  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Bernard Samuel
Nov 6, 2015
Bernard Samuel is a Philadelphia-based pianist with a "personal touch." He began playing while attending college, and has been, constantly developing his skills, style and gaining experience over the years. Drawing from the influences of R&B vocal groups like The Harptones and The Temptations, as well as the lyrical musical styling’s of  Read More....
Frosty 3! - Cool Holiday Jazz Celebration
Nov 6, 2015
Celebrate the Holidays with the Philadelphia Jazz Project! FROSTY 3: COOL HOLIDAY JAZZ CELEBRATION ....featuring some of Philadelphia's finest Jazz musicians. Frosty3! is co-produced and hosted by J. Michael Harrison. Hear him Fridays at 10:00 p.m. on The Bridge, on 90.1FM WRTI. SATURDAY | December 12th, 2015 | 3:00 p.m. IRVINE  Read More....
PhillyCAM Sessions-VSOR On TV
Nov 4, 2015
During the summer of 2015, Philadelphia Jazz Project, Turtle Studios and PhillyCAM partnered to create a series of one time special live studio recordings with some of Philadelphia's most intriguing elder performers. The program, which airs on Sunday Nights at 7pm this Fall is entitled, PJP Presents: PhillyCAM Sessions - Very Special One Time  Read More....
Jazz In Them There Hills
Oct 28, 2015
Arlene Hilton is a lifelong Jazz fan, in love with the music of the Great American Songbook. Like many who grew up in that golden era, she dreamed of singing those great songs accompanied by awesome musicians. Her dreams were put off to go to college and then, to have a work career and family. But sometimes, our joy has a way of following us. Now  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Kevin Ripley - Starting Things Off
Oct 20, 2015
During the summer of 2014, Leo Gadson of Producer's Guild, Adam Feldman of the The Free Library and Homer Jackson of PJP teamed up to develop a daring, new performance series: Mysterious Traveler Concert Series. The series featured FREE monthly concerts for 8 months during the 2014-15 season. It showcased a diverse array of Jazz performers who  Read More....
WOWS New Season 2015-16
Oct 3, 2015
“Music is an idea, not a style!” - Ornette Coleman This Fall, the Warriors of the Wonderful Sound return their midweek concert series at the Painted Bride Art Center, that began in the spring of 2015 and featured their amazing big band “Bobby Zankel and the Warriors of the Wonderful Sound with guest soloists Dave  Read More....
Feathers: A Poe Inspired Concert
Sep 22, 2015
Raven Illustration by Denise Erickson FEATHERS: A Musical Menagerie Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe Saturday, October 17th at 8:00pm Free Library of Philadelphia - Central Library 1901 Vine Street, Phila., PA 19103 Tickets: $15 in advance/$20 at the door Get Tickets Here! Featuring Baltimore-based multi-media artist, Joyce J.  Read More....
Moon Garden
Sep 16, 2015
On Sunday, September 20th beginning at 6pm, Ars Nova Workshop (ANW) is providing us with a marvelous experience. They along with collaborator Bartram’s Garden, the birthplace of American botany, present MOON GARDEN, a free evening-length festival featuring award winning saxophonist-composer Steve Coleman. MOON GARDEN Steve Coleman &  Read More....
The Dream Book
Sep 12, 2015
The Dream Book is a work of music, dance, and video led by Kevin Diehl's Sonic Liberation 8 and featuring the work of Kùlú Mèlé Dance Company, The Prometheus Chamber Orchestra, Moor Mother Goddess, Mayita Angarica with Baba Rumba, and video artists, Hubbard & Son. Sparked by a curiosity of hoodoo gambling magic, this  Read More....
A Philly Songbook Story
Sep 10, 2015
“Bobby Mcferrin and I go to the same chiropractor.” These words begin a story told by one of the performers in the Philadelphia Jazz Project [PJP's] latest offering, The Philadelphia Songbook Vol.2 and the comment stands as illustration of how rich the local environment is with people who make regular, stellar contributions to  Read More....
Phila Songbook Concert Vol 2
Aug 30, 2015
In February of 2014, PJP presented the very first Philadelphia Songbook Concert at Temple Performing Art Center [TPAC]. There were over 900 excited people in attendance. They saw an amazing concert with an all star band led by pianist Alfie Pollitt, featuring artists like Pablo Batista, Webb Thomas, Barbara Walker, Pete Chavez, Ella Gahnt,  Read More....
Streets Are Buzzing
Aug 4, 2015
The following is a commentary written by Philadelphia pianist, Kendrah E. Butler. She is a remarkable musician and has collaborated with PJP on a number of ocassions. In the message below, she shares her response to a recent concert that PJP and our partner, WRTI-FM produced. Hello. My Philadelphia Jazz Project Family! What can I say  Read More....
Germantown Stars Under The Stars
Jul 31, 2015
Germantown Artists Roundtable is one of PJP's best partners. We have done three very successful projects together. This summer Germantown Artists Roundtable has been very busy. We spoke with Paula Paul, one of the organizers of the group about their next big event: Germantown Stars Under The Stars which takes place on Friday, August 7th, 2015,  Read More....
Take It Away Dance At Venice Island
Jul 28, 2015
The 7 x 7 Venice Island Concert Series takes place at the new and beautiful performance facility: Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center in Manayunk. This series introduces the artists and the audience to a must-see Philadelphia area venue. It is through these kinds of efforts that we support and enable the Philadelphia Jazz music  Read More....
3 Jazz Films
Jul 28, 2015
If you enjoy the music and are open to learning more about it, then you don't want to miss 3 short films that are coming our way very soon. Most important, there's a local angle here as well. Dr. Guy Ramsey, Edmund J. and Louise W. Kahn Term Professor of Music at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the very informative book, "The Amazing  Read More....
Raimundo Santos At Venice Island
Jul 2, 2015
The 7 x 7 Venice Island Concert Series takes place at the new and beautiful performance facility: Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center in Manayunk. This series introduces the artists and the audience to a must-see Philadelphia area venue. It is through these kinds of efforts that we support and enable the Philadelphia Jazz music scene  Read More....
DivaNation Salon At 7165 Lounge
Jul 1, 2015
The DivaNation Salon Series Continues Saturday, July 11th 2015 at 4pm 7165 Lounge 7165 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia PA 19119 Tickets: $15, $10 Students & Seniors Buy Tickets Here This concert will feature DivaNation vocalists: ▪ Barbara Montgomery ▪ Carol Harris ▪ Saudah Al-Akbar The music director for the evening  Read More....
1st Time In Philadelphia
Jun 25, 2015
Hailing from Bahia, Brazil, the percussion and woodwinds big band, Letieres Leite & Orkestra Rumpilezz embark on their very first U.S. tour debuting Friday, July 31, 2015, in Philadelphia. In partnership with "Southern Exposure," the concert tour will feature musicians from New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Santa Cruz, San Jose and Miami.  Read More....
A Blast From Recent Past
Jun 1, 2015
In March 2013, PJP was invited to do an unusual thing. We were asked to be amongst a group of performers to take part in Philadelphia's TedX talks. These events have rarely, if ever involved musical performances. We thought long and hard of what and who to present. The following is documentation video from the Tedx YouTube Channel, of  Read More....
We’re All Winners
May 28, 2015
Since the Fall of 2014, Philadelphia Jazz Project and our partner, Jazz Near You/All About Jazz have been engaged in a campaign to remind Jazz fans of the vibrancy of the music, as well as introduce new audience members to the wonders of Jazz & Grown Folks Music. Our goal is to develop a mailing list of 100,000 people. We’ve been  Read More....
Announcing Sun Ra Mixtape Series
May 21, 2015
Last fall, Philadelphia Jazz Project developed a unique challenge for DJs, producers, electronic musicians, turntablists and anyone that understands the sampling sport. An open call was issued to this creative community to create instrumental tracks that could support vocals from singers, poets, and/or rappers, as well as solos by  Read More....
DivaNation - Barry Harris-Style Vocalist Workshop
May 6, 2015
DivaNation Workshop Series: Barry Harris Style Workshop for Vocalists Tuesday, May 12, 2015 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Phila. Clef Club of Jazz 738 S. Broad St. - Broad & Fitzwater Sts. Philadelphia, PA 19146 Aaron Graves Moderator Workshop Fee: $10.00 / $5.00 for Seniors, Students, and DivaNation Members. To purchase tickets online, click  Read More....
First Fridays At Arch Street Meeting House
Apr 25, 2015
PJP and the Producer's Guild are collaborating with the Arch Street Meeting House to present a series of exciting, First Friday events from May thru September 2015. Based on our Listening Parties, these events are will consist of pre-recorded musical selections, live performances, social dancing, free refreshments, vendors, games, prizes and more.  Read More....
What’s A Mixtape & What's It Gotta Do With Jazz?
Apr 24, 2015
I'm sure that you've heard the term before… Mixtape. According to our friends at Wikipedia; “A mix-tape or mix tape is the generic name given to any compilation of songs recorded onto any audio format…. Essayist Geoffrey O'Brien has called the personal mix tape "the most widely practiced American art form.”  Read More....
Big Wonderful Sound
Apr 24, 2015
This music is a big tree with many branches - Bobby Zankel About this time last year, we were all still spinning from the impact of saxophonist, Bobby Zankel & the Warriors of the Wonderful Sound led Still The New Thing Festival This cutting edge music festival was a 1,2 3 punch affair with three sold-out shows at the Painted Bride Art Center  Read More....
Butler & Fearrington-Women In Jazz Showcase
Apr 16, 2015
The 7 x 7 Venice Island Concert Series takes place at the new and beautiful performance facility: Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center in Manayunk. This series introduces the artists and the audience to a must-see Philadelphia area venue. It is through these kinds of efforts that we support and enable the Philadelphia Jazz music scene  Read More....
Fashion & Jazz
Apr 16, 2015
A few years ago, PJP was introduced to an interesting gentlemen, Alphonso D. McClendon; Author, Fashion Historian and Assistant Professor in the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design at Drexel University. McClendon was a participant in our November 2013 Community Conversation, Cool Like What?: A Conversation on the History of Cool.  Read More....
PJP Mixtape Series
Apr 11, 2015
Philadelphia is home to strong musical traditions like Jazz, Gospel, DooWop, R&B, Rock and Hiphop. Our greatest strength has been the unexpected and wonderful blending and swirling of these traditions into new and fascinating musical creations. That's what we did and that's what we still do. This mixtape series, available as a free download is an  Read More....
More Home Cooking
Apr 11, 2015
Philadelphia Jazz Project director, Homer Jackson was recently interviewed by Matthew Leister of Jump Philly Magazine. They discussed the Homecooking; Celebrating The Philadelphia Jazz Organ Tradition concert which occurred on Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at World Cafe Live and will be broadcast on National Public Radio's [NPR’s] Jazz Night In  Read More....
JAZZ LIVES IN PHILADELPHIA
Apr 10, 2015
Greetings and Welcome to Jazz Appreciation Month 2015: April is here and that could only mean one thing, we, The Philadelphia Jazz Community is tuning up for Jazz Appreciation Month. In celebration of this special month, we are sharing a collection of voices from Philadelphia’s community of fans, supporters, performers and  Read More....
7 x 7 Concert Series At Venice Island
Apr 8, 2015
This Spring and Summer, PJP in collaboration with seven talented Philadelphia musicians will present 7 magnificent concerts at the brand, spanking new performance venue, the Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center in Manayunk. These 7 artists represent a diverse cross-section of the contemporary, Philadelphia musical  Read More....
DivaNation Workshop - Basics of Music Business
Apr 7, 2015
DivaNation Workshop Series: Understanding the Basics of the Business of Music Moderator: Barbara Montgomery Tuesday, April 21, 2015, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Philadelphia Clef Club 738 S. Broad St. [ Broad & Fitzwater Sts.] Philadelphia, PA 19146 Workshop Fee: $10.00 / $5.00 for Seniors, Students, and DivaNation Members. To  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler Series 2014-15
Apr 7, 2015
The next and final Mysterious Traveler Concert Series concert of this season is... Monday, April 13, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. Central Library/Montgomery Auditorium 1901 Vine Street, 19103 Featuring: 3 Bassists + A Drummer More Info About Concert Here During the summer of 2014, Leo Gadson of Producer's Guild, Adam  Read More....
April 2015
Apr 7, 2015
It’s Jazz Appreciation Month and there are lots of activities happening this month: Great concerts, dialogues and even films. Some events are even free. To find out more about what’s happening in Philly this month, visit: City of Phila - Jazz Month Calendar or Jazz Near You: Philadelphia This month PJP will share a free  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Karen Smith
Feb 24, 2015
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz performers who are shaping the future sounds of Philadelphia. The next  Read More....
Celebrating Philly's Jazz Organ Tradition
Feb 24, 2015
Home Cooking: Celebrating The Philadelphia Jazz Organ Tradition Wednesday, March 4, 2015 from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM World Cafe Live 3025 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 Philadelphia Jazz Project, WRTI, WXPN and NPR's Jazz Night in America have teamed up to bring you Home Cooking: Celebrating the Philadelphia Jazz Organ Tradition. It's a  Read More....
Media Blitz
Feb 10, 2015
“When you hear music, after it's over, it's gone, in the air. You can never capture it again.” ....Eric Dolphy Since January of 2012, PJP has been presenting special events bringing together artists and audiences for some one of a kind experiences. If you missed one of those events, you missed a very special moment. The  Read More....
The Drum Speaks
Feb 6, 2015
Another Holiday For Skins is a special performance featuring an all star ensemble of Philadelphia drummers, percussionists and other musicians. This event is a 21st century celebration of the classic 1958 album “Holiday For Skins” and its sister projects, “Drum Suite” and “Orgy In Rhythm.” Recorded by  Read More....
Another Holiday For Skins
Feb 5, 2015
Another Holiday For Skins: A Drum Celebration Saturday | February 28, 2015 | 8:00 p.m. International House - Ibrahim Theater 3701 Chestnut Street, Phila., PA 19104 Another Holiday For Skins is a special performance featuring an all star, Philadelphia-based ensemble of trap drummers, percussionists and other musicians. This  Read More....
DivaNation - Bandleading Workshop For Singers
Feb 5, 2015
DivaNation Workshop Series: Bandleading Techniques for Singers Facilitated by Ella Gahnt Tuesday, February 10, 2015 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Philadelphia Clef Club 738 S. Broad St. [ Broad & Fitzwater Sts.] Philadelphia, PA 19146 Workshop Fee: $10.00 / $5.00 for Seniors, Students, and DivaNation Members. To purchase  Read More....
Love Sustains
Jan 15, 2015
Love Notes is a special Valentine's Day performance inspired by John Coltrane's classic Jazz ballad, “Naima.” Written in 1959 released on the album Giant Steps, and named after his then-wife, Juanita Naima Grubbs. Using this monumental composition as a catalyst, Love Notes will present an engaging exploration of love,  Read More....
DivaNation Movement & Voice Workshop
Jan 8, 2015
Movement & Voice Workshop for Singers & Movement Artists Facilitated by Germaine Ingram Tuesday January 13, 2015 6pm - 8pm Take the Lead Dance Studio 4701 Pine St., Philadelphia PA 19143 Admission: $10 General / $5 Students, Seniors, DivaNation members Sign up for workshop online HERE or call Gretchen Elise at 617  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Dan Hanrahan
Jan 4, 2015
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz  Read More....
PJP’s Jazzy Christmas Celebration
Dec 6, 2014
From LOVE Park to Penn’s Landing, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Philadelphia is blessed with many family holiday traditions, including everyone’s favorite, the Wanamaker Organ Christmas Light Show. Back in the day, families would go to the Gallery at Market East and sing holiday songs around the  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Wayne Smith Jr.
Dec 2, 2014
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz performers who are shaping the future sounds of Philadelphia. The upcoming  Read More....
PhillyCAM Sessions - Jazz On TV
Nov 15, 2014
PhillyCAM Sessions Promo from PhillyCAM on Vimeo. Phila Jazz Project, along with PhillyCAM and Turtle Studios produced a series of 13 live performances for television during the summer of 2014. These concerts feature some of the most exciting Jazz artists working in the Philadelphia region. Every Sunday Night from  Read More....
Frosty 2: Another Cool Holiday Jazz Celebration
Nov 14, 2014
Celebrate the Holidays with the Philadelphia Jazz Project! FROSTY 2: Another COOL HOLIDAY JAZZ CELEBRATION ....featuring some of Philadelphia's finest Jazz musicians. Co-produced and hosted by J. Michael Harrison of WRTI SATURDAY | December 13, 2014 | 4:00 p.m. [Doors open at 3:45pm] IRVINE AUDITORIUM 3401 Spruce Street,  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Vince Turnbull
Nov 10, 2014
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz performers who are shaping the future sounds of Philadelphia. The upcoming  Read More....
Guest Playlist #3
Nov 1, 2014
Guest Playlist #3:The Gang of Four + One Playlist Guest Playlist is a special feature here at the PJP website. We asked musicians, artists, DJs, journalists, dancers, politicians, and average Jazz fans to share a playlist of music that is important to them. We wanted to get and share what folks are listening to and what they think the  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler - Michael Cemprola
Oct 9, 2014
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz performers who are shaping the future sounds of Philadelphia. The upcoming  Read More....
Road To Merida - Part 2 - Elliott Levin
Oct 8, 2014
Cancun/Merida; May 16, 2013 Arrive in Cancun... swoon through the Yucatan 180... void past Valladolid... Popola... Chichenitza... into Merida... Steaming spring eternal humid-if-i-cation... revived by Sopa Limon... a Mayan tonic (lemon spiced chicken broth with tortilla strips)... Leads to Olimpo Sonic (theater/venue of our opening &  Read More....
Road To Merida - Part 1 - Elliott Levin
Oct 8, 2014
In May of 2013, Philadelphia saxophonist and poet, Elliott Levin set off on a brief musical tour. He was traveling to perform in Cha'ak'ab Paaxil: Festival of Improvisation, Free Jazz & Noisiness, which takes place in the beautiful city of Merida, Mexico. Levin was going to jam and collaborate with some old and new friends. On the way, he would  Read More....
Another Monster Bash
Sep 8, 2014
Last year, award winning arranger/trombonist, Steve Tirpak, Laurin Talese, Chartel Findlater, Eric Wortham, Anwar Marshall, Jay Webb, Dahi Divine and company, blew the roof off of the Painted Bride Arts Center for two nights. This year, he's back. Same energy. Different locations. First, on Wednesday, October 8th, 2014, at The Kimmel Center's  Read More....
PJP Mixtape - Sun Ra Edition
Sep 8, 2014
This fall, the Philadelphia Jazz Project will create a 12 song, mixtape celebrating the 100th birthday of longtime Philadelphian, visionary musician, philosopher, composer and band leader, Sun Ra. We are looking for DJs, producers, electronic musicians, turntablists and anyone that understands the sampling sport to create instrumental  Read More....
Mysterious Traveler: Matthew Clayton
Aug 31, 2014
The Free Library, the Producer's Guild and PJP are teaming up to present a daring, new performance series. Entitled, Mysterious Travelers Concert Series, it will feature FREE monthly concerts running through April 2015. It will also showcase a diverse array of Jazz performers who are shaping the future sounds of Philadelphia. The  Read More....
Billy Strayhorn Celebration
Aug 25, 2014
Lush Life: Philadelphia Celebrates Billy Strayhorn is a diverse, inter-generational tribute to Dayton-born, Pittsburgh-raised, pianist, composer and arranger, William Thomas Strayhorn. As Duke Ellington's creative partner for over 30 years, the openly gay and unprecedented Strayhorn created such classics and standards of the Great American  Read More....
It Is Electric
Aug 25, 2014
Written by: Sharon Chestnut Ok, we all know it; That heady feeling when we recognize a tune but realize that it is about to be taken into an entirely different direction. We listen, poised to enter a landscape, which, while familiar, will deliver new insights in the nature of sound and the mind where sound synchs up and if we  Read More....
Guest Playlist #2
Aug 25, 2014
Guest Playlist #2: Guest Playlist is a special feature here at the PJP website. We asked musicians, artists, DJs, journalists, dancers, politicians, and average Jazz fans to share a playlist of music that is important to them. We wanted to get and share what folks are listening to and what they think the rest of us should check out. We  Read More....
Block Party At The Dell
Aug 12, 2014
On Thursday, August 21st, 2014, at The Dell Music Center in Fairmount Park, on the very night when Al Jarreau and David Sanborn appear, PJP has the honor of providing both pre-show performers and the opening act for the evening. Don't miss it. We're calling it East Fairmount Park Block Party. Join us as we re-imagine  Read More....
C Jam Blues-The Greatest Records Ever
Jul 24, 2014
The Greatest Records Ever: ¨C Jam Blues¨ from Mingus At Carnegie Hall This series is an opportunity to reflect on some of the amazing music that has come into our lives. From the popular and celebrated to the unknown, obscure and/or ignored, we will touch on some music that you know and love and surely some works that you  Read More....
Guest Playlist #1
Jul 14, 2014
Guest Playlist #1: Guest Playlist is a special feature here at the PJP website. We asked musicians, artists, DJs, journalists, dancers, politicians, and average Jazz fans to share a playlist of music that is important to them. We wanted to get and share what folks are listening to and what they think the rest of us should check out. We  Read More....
Centro Musical Free Concerts
Jul 12, 2014
Centro Musical Free Summer Music Series Celebrating 50 years of the Best Latin Music and Service to the Community 4 Concerts 4 Saturdays 2 Locations 30+ Performers! Centro Musical is a third generation family owned and operated business. Founded in 1964, it is the biggest and longest standing Latin Music Store in  Read More....
DivaNation is Coming
Jun 25, 2014
DivaNation is a diverse and developing community of Philadelphia's female singers who evoke the spirit of legendary Jazz singers like Ethel Waters, Sarah Vaughan and Billie Holiday, while simultaneously keeping an eye and ear open to the sounds of the future. For six months, in monthly sessions, these women have been meeting,  Read More....
Who Got The Jazz #6
Jun 22, 2014
For six months, Philadelphia Jazz Project and Yusuf Muhammad's Veteran Freshman have presented an exciting series of live hip-hop/jazz music events at World Cafe Live. The series is called Who Got The Jazz and brings together jazz and hip-hop performers collaborating together and paying homage to a jazz legend. It is inspired by the classic  Read More....
Make Music Philly 2014
Jun 11, 2014
Make Music Day is a global celebration that takes place on the summer solstice each year and over 500 cities world-wide celebrate. Saturday June 21, 2014, will be the second time Philadelphia joins in the celebration. Think of Make Music Philly as a city wide, musical showcase presenting the whole gamut of musical expression available in the  Read More....
Jazz Dance Party
May 15, 2014
It's finally happening. Our first Jazz Dance Party. After 4 months of free dance classes with the 52nd Street YMCA, we are ready to party. Are you? JAZZ DANCE PARTY! Saturday, June 7th at 8:00pm Center For Architecture 1218 Arch Street Phila PA 19106? Blues, Bebop, Latin Jazz, Organ Trios,  Read More....
Dizzy Hours In Philly
Apr 16, 2014
In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, [we call it Philly JAM] PJP in collaboration with its partners will present a series of FREE events each Monday called Dizzy Hours, honoring the legend and contributions of Philadelphia’s Bebop pioneer, Dizzy Gillespie. Dizzy Hours Every Monday in April from 5 – 7  Read More....
Philly JAM 2014 Highlights!
Apr 6, 2014
It's Jazz Appreciation Month. That means Philly JAM. Philadelphia Jazz Project and its partners, including Jazz Near You, are collaborating to make sure that you know what's happening in and outside of the city.. This month in the Philadelphia area there are over 300 events…yes, 300 events that everyone can  Read More....
It's Jazz Appreciation Month...Let's JAM
Apr 1, 2014
It's Jazz month folks! Philadelphia Jazz Appreciation Month 2014 (Philly JAM) Over 300 Jazz or Jazz-related events will happen this month. The Philadelphia Jazz community is coming together to show our city/region a good time, so come out and JAM Philly! Big Picture Philadelphia Jazz Appreciation  Read More....
Celebrating Ornette
Mar 20, 2014
A friend once told me a Jazz joke. It goes: John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins decided to see a wise, holy man to ask him for the secrets of saxophone perfection. To get to him they had to travel many miles by plane and train and then, hike up a snow covered mountain. When they finally reached the summit. They found a small man sitting there with his  Read More....
Still The New Thing!
Mar 3, 2014
In the 1950s, a group of musicians diverged from the pack and set the worked on fire. Their approaches openly challenged the prevailing process and caused tensions within the American musical community. Some championed them and their efforts. Others vehemently opposed them and others, even brought their opinions to the point of  Read More....
Crisis In Black Culture Talk Postponed-Rescheduled
Mar 2, 2014
With the impending snowstorm at our doorstep, we will postpone tomorrow’s Community Conversation and we have rescheduled for next Monday at the same place and time. So join us next week for our …. Community Conversation: Crisis In Black Culture Monday, March 10th, 6:30pm First District Plaza 3801 Market  Read More....
Crisis In Black Culture Talk - Rescheduled
Feb 19, 2014
My most sincere apologies to our panelists, guests, volunteers, photographers and video folk who came out last night for our Community Conversation: A Crisis In Black Culture, scheduled to happen on Monday, February 17th at 6:30pm at the African American Museum in Philadelphia. It did not happen. We were unable to get into the  Read More....
A Crisis In Black Culture
Feb 11, 2014
Community Conversations bring together the general public to discuss pertinent cultural topics. Hosted by Homer Jackson, the process is informal and the audience is encouraged to dialogue on equal footing with our special guests. Monday | February 17 | 6:30 p.m. African American Museum in Philadelphia 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA  Read More....
Philadelphia Songbook Concert Volume 1
Jan 29, 2014
The Philadelphia Jazz Project seeks the creation of a local songbook in the tradition of the Great American Songbook, which celebrates the most important and influential American popular songs of the 20th century. The Philadelphia Songbook Concerts will include Jazz standards and popular songs penned and/or performed by local  Read More....
Something Special
Dec 24, 2013
On Sunday, December 15th 2013, something special happened. With the planning of witty co-producer, J. Michael Harrison, the wizardly help of pianist, musical director, Aaron Graves, and the gargantuan efforts of the Philadelphia Jazz Project's team of Melissa Talley-Palmer, Julia Lopez and Gail Fountaine, Frosty: A Cool Holiday Jazz  Read More....
Listening Party #4
Nov 14, 2013
Philadelphia Jazz Project invites you to Listening Party #4 Friday, November 22nd, 2013 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. At The Friends Meeting House 320 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 This is our 4th Listening Party. Each party has been unique and exciting. Each one showcases great music, poets, comedians and of course, some  Read More....
Monster Bash
Oct 20, 2013
On Halloween night, Thursday, October 31st at 8pm and Friday, November 1st at 8pm at the Painted Bride Art Center, award winning arranger/trombonist, Steve Tirpak brings together some of Philly's most talented Jazz artists to scare the shhhhh%$@#! outta you, in a special Halloween performance, a monster bash called, "Boo!" “The band  Read More....
Fall Happenings
Sep 25, 2013
If you missed it, Listening Party#3 3 was a great success. Taking place at the cozy Pavilion on the beautiful grounds of the The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education in the Andorra section of the city, we had a nice crowd who enjoyed both the music and the location. The weather was just chilly enough for the roaring fire that we  Read More....
Let Us Quote You
Aug 21, 2013
Hundreds of people attended Phila Jazz Project events this year. If you attended any PJP events, tell us something about your experience. Did you have a good time? Did you bring friends or family along with you? Help us do a better job. Share your thoughts. We need your voice. Let Us Quote You. We will  Read More....
Black February
Jul 24, 2013
Documentary film screening: "Black February." Saturday, August 3rd at 6:30pm at Drexel University: Papadakis Auditorium Room; Every once in a while in American culture, someone comes along and shakes up things… and when they do, everyone knows it. American music has never been the same after Louis  Read More....
Fast & Furious
Jun 28, 2013
The Summer of 2013 has come upon us fast and furious. Hard to believe that it's here already, but it's hot and the kids are out of school. Time flies when you're having fun and it's been an incredible, first 6 months for Philadelphia Jazz Project [PJP]. Our Community Conversations at the Gershman Y and PhillyCam with guests like musicians  Read More....
Make Music Philly Day
Jun 15, 2013
Make Music Day is a global celebration that takes place on the summer solstice each year and for the first time ever, the “city of brotherly love” will join with over 500 other cites world-wide to celebrate from 8AM -8PM. Friday June 21, 2013 will be the first, city-wide, free “do it yourself” festival - including  Read More....
Economy of Scale
May 8, 2013
The great bassist/composer, Charles Mingus left an indelible imprint on Jazz music. He was an incredible force of nature and a fierce believer in his dreams. He was an amazing bandleader who could squeeze intense performances out of any ensemble and an audio alchemist who truly understood the meaning of the term, "economy of  Read More....
Listen Up
Mar 7, 2013
Last Friday, we put on our first listening party. With WRTI's J. Michael Harrison hosting, we featured music by local musicians like Rhenda Fearrington, Keith DeStefano & Puzzlebox, Odean Pope, Robert Kenyatta, Korey Riker and Lauren Lark. The musicians who were in the house spoke to the audience about their music and then, they mixed  Read More....