The Houston Jazz Festival
Saturday Sept. 16th, 2023
VENUE: Miller Outdoor Theatre
The Duke Ellington Orchestra
The American Master Series brings the spotlight to the magnificent Duke Ellington Orchestra, directed with finesse by Charlie Young. This musical extravaganza features special guest Paul Mercer Ellington, adding a layer of legacy to the performance. The experience is further elevated by the captivating artwork of acclaimed artist Jack Whitten, creating a seamless blend of auditory and visual brilliance.
Guided by the legacy of Duke Ellington, the orchestra’s vibrant melodies traverse time, echoing from their inception in 1923 to the present day under Charlie Young’s direction. Amidst this musical tapestry, Houston’s own luminaries, Shelley “The Showstopper” Carrol and Andre “Big Butter” Hayward, infuse their Texan jazz roots into the performance, forging a connection between the music and the city’s rich cultural heritage. The crescendo of the event arrives as Jack Whitten’s art takes the stage, enveloping the audience in a multisensory experience that celebrates both the auditory magic of jazz and the visual magic of artistic expression.
Sunday, Sept 17th 2023
Day 2 Jazz Extravaganza at Axelrad Festival: A Glimpse
Day 2 of the Axelrad Festival beckons you to immerse yourself in the world of jazz at Houston’s vibrant outdoor patio bar. The festival’s curtain rises with the budding talents of the Summer Jazz Workshop and TSU Jazz Ensemble, offering a glimpse into the promising future of jazz. As the sun sets, The Houston Jazz Collective graces the stage, led by saxophonist Shelley Carrol and Trombonist Andre Hayward. Their soulful renditions pay homage to Arnett Cobb’s iconic “Party Time” compositions, evoking emotions and a deep appreciation for jazz classics.
As the night unfolds, the TKOh Funk Jazz Band takes center stage, composed of Houston’s jazz luminaries. Their unique blend of classic funk tunes and extended jazz solos creates an irresistible groove that will set your feet tapping and your spirit soaring. Against the enchanting backdrop of Axelrad’s outdoor stage, this event promises an unforgettable experience, uniting generations of jazz enthusiasts in a celebration of music and camaraderie. Join us as we embrace the enchanting magic of jazz in the heart of Houston, with an evening that’s sure to leave an indelible melody in your heart.
Performance Schedule at Axelrad
Doors at 2 pm until 10pm
2:30 – 3:00 Summer Jazz Workshop Band
3:15 – 4:00 TSU Jazz Ensemble
4:15 – 5:05 La Lucha (John Calderon/Jose Miguel Yamal)
5:15 – 6:00 The Houston Ensemble
6:10-6:55 Houston Jazz Collective Quintet feat Andre Hayward & Shelley Carrol
7:05 – 7:50 Woody Witt Quartet
8:00 – 8:45 Art Fristoe Quartet
9:00 – 10:00 TKOh (featuring Kelly Dean, David Caceras, Andre Hayward and more…)
The Duke Ellington Orchestra
Sept 16th 2023 Miller Outdoor Theatre 8PM
TRUSTED HANDS BEHIND US
Our great sponsors
“Sponsored in part by the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board”
If events like this inspire you, Please take a brief moment to contribute to the Houston Jazz Collective
The Mission
Houston Jazz Collective Organization &
Houston Jazz Collective Performance Group
Want to join us in making a difference? Our current focus is delivering a great Houston Jazz Festival this Fall 2019 at The Miller Outdoor Theater. Any donation will help make an impact!
Jazz Musicology:
The Educational Outreach Program
The organization’s mission also encompasses an education program called Jazz Musicology. It has several branch programs, one of which is “The Houston Center for After School Jazz Programs”. In this video you will see Bob Dorough, Andre Hayward & Shelley Carrol mentoring & entertaining the youth at the Boys and Girl Harbor, a charitable facility for abused, abandoned, neglected children ages (5-18) during an afternoon day program.
Past Events
The Contemporary Arts Museum
August 4th 2022 6:30-7:30 at the Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston “Jazz performance inspired by Ghana artist Amoako Boafo feat Andre Hayward ”.
