2024-01-26 Hardly Raining
The Seattle Jazz Fellowship (SJF) reopened its doors in a new Pioneer Square location on January 26, 2024. Founded in 2021, the nonprofit organization has operated “Fellowship Wednesday” concerts at Vermillion, the “Julian Speaks” community talk series at Langston (with legendary trombonist Julian Priester), a youth-focused jam session at the Seattle Drum School, and special events at other Seattle venues. The reopening weekend has attracted lots of press, and both nights were standing-room only with a line for entry.
Personnel at the Friday show included Marc Seales (piano), Jeff Johnson (bass), John Bishop (drums), Mark Taylor (alto saxophone), D’Vonne Lewis (drums), Kelsey Mines (bass), Trevor Ford (bass), Susan Pascal (vibraphone), Jackson Cotugno (tenor saxophone), Thomas Marriott (trumpet, emcee), Eric Verlinde (piano), and several special guests. There were four ensembles, separated by brief intermissions.
The Fellowship returned at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday with a new lineup of resident jazz artists. Musicians included Dawn Clement (piano, vocals), Stefan Schatz (drums), Chris Symer (bass), Johnaye Kendrick (vocals), Dylan Hayes (piano), Matt Jorgensen (drums), Phil Sparks (bass), Greta Matassa (vocals), Carter Eng (trumpet), Beserat Tafesse (trombone), and Jay Thomas (tenor sax, Flugelhorn). The show was well-attended again on Saturday.
Admission to SJF shows is a $20 suggested donation, or free for SJF members. Going forward, SJF will present shows three to four nights a week at the 109 S Main St venue.
Editor’s note: This story was updated on January 28 to include information and photos about Saturday’s show.
Gallery: Seattle Jazz Fellowship Opening Weekend (Friday)
Gallery: Seattle Jazz Fellowship Opening Weekend (Saturday)
Seattle Jazz Fellowship promotional video (2023). (Photos: Lisa Hagen Glynn)