Summer of the Arts

Hercules
2024-08-03 20:30 - 22:00 (America/Chicago) | Pepperwood Plaza, 1067 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City, 52240
Sponsored by South of 6 Iowa City Business District
Runtime: 1hr 27min
Rating: PG
Starring: Tate Donovan, Danny DeVito, James Woods
Plot: Hercules, a son of gods turned demi-god, needs to perform a rite of passage on Earth to prove himself worthy of living with the gods on Mount Olympus. With his satyr mentor, Philoctetes, along for the ride, Hercules must learn how to use his strength to defeat a series of evil creatures and stop the plans of Hades.
Watch the trailer HERE!
*Start times are an estimation based on sunset and are subject to change.

The Fabulous Trutones AND Cedar County Cobras
2024-08-02 18:30 - 21:00 | Dr. Suzanne Stock Ped Mall Stage – Iowa Arts Festival, 210 S Dubuque Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by KCJJ Radio
Schedule
6:30 PM: The Fabulous Trutones
7:55 PM: Cedar County Cobras

About: The Fabulous Trutones. That’s what happens when three veteran musicians come together with a singular purpose….to present their original music with intensity, passion and joy. Over the past nine years, from their early days in the local pubs of Cedar Falls and Waterloo Iowa, then branching out to bigger venues in neighboring cities throughout the Cedar Valley, to becoming yearly favorites at some of the area’s largest festivals, their devoted following has grown along with their unique sound and electric, high-energy performances. Catch one of their shows, join the fun and follow them into the future. It’s just going to get better and better….”
Tim Wagoner, guitarist and lead vocalist, began playing piano at the age of 8, picked up guitar at the age of 10 and went on to major in music at the University of Northern Iowa. Following this musical path eventually led him to Dallas TX and 10 years in the Texas blues scene, then 20 years in Nashville TN as a song writer, studio musician and live performer, traveling for 8 years with notable New Orleans based blues band, Big Al & The Heavyweights, covering the lower 48 and releasing 5 CDs. With The Fabulous TruTones, he continues the journey.
Paul Ferguson, bass guitarist and vocalist, began playing professionally in his teens and never looked back. A prominent figure in the Midwest music scene for most of his life, Paul also spent years in Dallas TX, working with R&B, blues and original acts. A founding member of successful area bands like Sugar Daddy, Homestretch, Surprise, Major Healey, Wagg and Stackhouse, Paul brings it all to The Fabulous TruTones. Nothing stands for long without a strong foundation. Thanks to Paul, The Fabulous TruTones stand tall.
James Dreier, percussionist, began his professional career at age 16 by walking into the basement of Waterloo bassist Paul Ferguson to join the Fabulous Pawns. Thus began his musical odyssey, spanning 50+ years, including a 9-year stint in Boston (Berklee College of Music) and 21 years as a jazz professor at the University of Iowa. Throughout, Dreier has been a member of numerous groups, playing and recording jazz, blues, rock, funk, Latin and more. At this end of the spectrum, he is an Emeritus (retired) professor, playing with another “fabulous” group, The Fabulous TruTones, with that same bass player from 1969. Dreier also plays with the classic rock band, The Beaker Brothers, as well as the jazz group 3 Dawgs and a Bone.

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About: Cedar County Cobras play American Roots & Blues music from the last century. The music takes on an “old time” blues feel that would most likely be found in a juke-joint down a gravel road in rural Iowa. Arriving with an upright bass, foot-drum, mandolin, and a collection of guitars this duo plays music that is best described as “boot-stompin” delta blues and roots blues.

Contact Information:
Web: https://cedarcountycobras.com/
Other links: https://cedarcountycobras.com/press-kit

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Blake Shaw
2024-07-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Emma J. Harvat Square, 904 Walker Cir, Iowa City, IA, 52245, United States
Sponsored by the Peninsula Neighborhood

About: Blake Shaw is a composer/arranger, bandleader, double/electric bassist, vocalist, private lessons teacher, and jazz professor at Cornell College and Mt Mercy College. Originally from Lisbon, Iowa, Blake has earned an Associate of Arts degree from Kirkwood Community College as well as a Bachelor of Music (‘13) and Master of Arts (‘17) degree both from the University of Iowa. He has called Iowa City, IA home for the past 14yrs where he has provided insight on festival boards for around half that time for the Iowa City Jazz Festival as well as the Iowa City Pride Fest where he serves as Entertainment Director. Shaw is a frequent performer and band leader in many different groups across Iowa and the US. He can also be found teaching private lessons to young dedicated classical and jazz double bass players. Shaw has had the pleasure of playing with jazz greats like Carmen Bradford, Wycliffe Gordon, Rachel Eckroth, Dave Pietro, O’had Talmor, and Dick Oatts. He’s also been in groups opening for bands like Kurt Elling, Charlie Hunter, Lake Street Dive, Donny McCaslin, Margaret Glaspy, John Raymond and the Real Feels, Bridget Kearney, Caroline Smith, The Marcus King Band, and Euforquestra. You may go “like” all of his cute pics on instagram @theeblakebass.

Contact Information:
Web: https://blakeshawbass.bandcamp.com/music
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/blakeshawbass

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Dave Zollo & The Body Electric
2024-07-27 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Shaner Magalhães, Urban Acres Realtor and Nanci Kohl, State Farm Agent

About: Since bursting onto the midwestern music scene with the band High and Lonesome in 1992, David Zollo has had a busy career. Along with constant touring, in the U.S and Europe, with High and Lonesome (1992-1998) and his current band, The Body Electric (1998-present) Zollo has recorded 7 records of his own material. Despite the many things Zollo has done during his career, it is as a live performer that many feel he’s at his best.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.davezollo.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/david.zollo/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBWcDyxS4LM

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Vivian Shanley Quartet AND Betsy Hickok and Ron Roberts Quartet
2024-07-26 18:30 - 21:00 | Dr. Suzanne Stock Ped Mall Stage – Iowa Arts Festival, 210 S Dubuque Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by The Graduate Hotel
Schedule:
6:30 PM: Vivian Shanley Quartet
7:30 PM: Betsy Hickok and Ron Roberts Quartet

About: The Vivian Shanley Quartet is a jazz combo made up of Iowa-based performers, composers, and educators. Vivian Shanley is a DownBeat award-winning bassist from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and she is currently studying music education and bass performance with Mark Urness at Lawrence University. Ana Koch studies guitar at the University of Iowa, where she is pursuing a nursing major and has completed her music minor. Sam Ross is a saxophone student at The University of Iowa, pursuing a BM in Jazz Performance and studying with Dr. Damani Phillips. Farren Johnson is an elementary art teacher in Grinnell, and she drums with the Iowa Women’s Jazz Orchestra, the IWJO Sextet, and Chameleon Society

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About: Vocalist Betsy Hickok performs sensitive and swinging interpretations of jazz standards. She has appeared in the Des Moines Metro Arts Jazz in July series, the Iowa City Jazz Festival, Noce Jazz Cabaret, and other regional venues with some of Iowa’s top musicians. Guitarist Ron Roberts is a Chicago area native who has played regularly with artists throughout central Iowa.

Ron and Betsy have performed together since 2010 and received a Special Recognition Award in 2019 from the Des Moines Community Jazz Center Hall of Fame. Ryan Smith is a woodwind specialist living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who has performed throughout the Midwest and in Brazil, Italy, Hong Kong, and China. Drew Morton, bassist and multimedia artist, is a regular musician with various groups in the area including Jack Lion, Koplant No, and Christopher’s Very Happy Band.

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The Feralings
2024-07-23 18:30 - 20:00 | North Market Square Park, 600 Fairchild St., Iowa City, 52245
Sponsored by Martin Construction

About: Ralph Waldo Emerson. Diesel. Morning glories. AM radio. These all influence Iowa acoustic roots trio The Feralings, as do the gently sloping landscapes of the Iowa countryside and the sound of tornado sirens squealing and the rumble of trucks on I-80. Their songwriting reflects friendship, imperfection, magic, and a big love for storytelling, as well as the folk, bluegrass, jazz, alt-country, Americana, gospel, and roots that form each member’s musical DNA.
Their debut EP, titled simply “The Feralings”, was recorded over the course of several years, as the band navigated parenthood, life changes, and personal struggles, and it showcases the power and intimacy of the band’s enthralling live performances. The band is currently in the process of recording their long-awaited follow-up album.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.theferalings.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/TheFeralings

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Spies in Disguise
2024-07-20 21:00 - 23:00 | Mercer Park, 1317 Dover St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Pre-show activities with ImOn
Sponsored by Storelocal Storage
Runtime: 1hr 42min
Rating: PG
Starring: Tom Holland, Will Smith, Rashida Jones
Plot: Lance Sterling is the world’s greatest spy, who successfully accomplishes even the most dangerous missions with suave and a ready quip. Socially awkward genius Walter Beckett is a tech geek whose bizarre, non-lethal gadgets make him a running joke in the agency. An unexpected event forces them to rely on each other in order to save the world, but there’s one small feathered problem…
You can watch the trailer HERE!
*Start times are an estimation based on sunset and are subject to change.

Charlotte Blu AND Natural Habits
2024-07-19 18:30 - 21:00 | Dr. Suzanne Stock Ped Mall Stage – Iowa Arts Festival, 210 S Dubuque Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Luna’s Tacos
Schedule:
6:30 PM: Charlotte Blu
7:30 PM: Natural Habits

About: Charlotte Blu is a talented singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences with her soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Born and raised in a small town in the Midwest, Charlotte’s love for music began at a young age when she started playing guitar and singing in church. After her 2019 appearance on NBC’s “The Voice”, Charlotte continues to make a name for herself with her unique blend of blues, soul, and pop influences which is earning her a devoted fan base.
In 2022, Charlotte released her debut EP, “The Colors of You” which showcased her songwriting skills and powerful vocals. Charlotte is currently working on new material and working with other talented artists. In addition to her music career, Charlotte is also an advocate for mental health awareness in women and young people.

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About: Natural Habits is self-defined as “original midwestern roots rock” – not quite country, not quite pop, not quite rock and roll. Fronted by singer/songwriter Nikki Lunden Trotter, this band brings your mind and heart to full attention with personal and complex songs of love, addiction, recovery and even gets political at times.
Natural Habits consists of Nikki Lunden Trotter (The Trollies, Heinous Canis, Lunden Reign), Seth “Puma” Koenig on drums (The Trollies, Heinous Canis, Lunatics on Pogosticks), Adam Grosso on bass (The Trollies, Euforquestra, Jumbies), Dave Helmer on guitar (Crystal City, Dave Helmer Band) and the one and only Smudge on hand percussion.

Contact Information:
Web: https://naturalhabitsband.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/NaturalHabitsBand/

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Eat for the Arts at Joseph's Steakhouse
2024-07-18 17:00 - 21:00 | Joseph’s Steakhouse, 212 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Eat for the Arts at Joseph’s Steakhouse on July 18! 15% of the cost of your meal will be donated to our always-free arts programming.
Make it a date, a friend’s night, or treat yourself to a fine dining experience!

Kevin Burt
2024-07-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Willow Creek Park, 1117 Teg Dr, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
The Iowa Children’s Museum is providing activities at this event!
Sponsored by On With Life

About: For nearly 3 decades, Kevin Burt, Iowa Blues Hall of Fame member (class of 2019), has been mesmerizing audiences with his powerfully smooth and soulful vocal. Paired with his unique harmonica and guitar presentation along with his quick wit, Burt engages with his audience touching their souls while tickling their funny bones.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.kevinburtmusic.com/
Other links: www.facebook.com/KevinBurtMusic
https://www.instagram.com/kevinburtsblues/
www.twitter.com/KevinBurtMusic

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Barbie
2024-07-13 21:00 - 23:30 | Iowa City Municipal Airport, 1801 Riverside Dr., Iowa City, 52246
Pre-show activities with ImOn
Sponsored by Sobaski Abbey Carpet & Flooring
Runtime: 1hr 54 min
Rating: PG-13
Starring: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera
Plot: Barbie finds herself pondering the nature of her existence after a number of unusual incidents in her otherwise perfect life. This leads her to leave Barbieland for the Real World alongside her friend Ken. Will Barbie’s trip to reality be able to sort out her newfound existential crisis or will Mattel themselves catch up to her and put her back in her box before then?
Watch the trailer HERE!
*Start times are an estimation based on sunset and are subject to change

Vibe
2024-07-12 18:30 - 21:00 | Dr. Suzanne Stock Ped Mall Stage – Iowa Arts Festival, 210 S Dubuque Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Vortex Digital Business Solutions

About: Based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the members of Vibe have been playing together in various projects for the last 10 years. We’re six friends who love jamming together and connecting with audiences to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where we can all benefit from the inspiration of music. Come vibe with Alicia Monee, Kelsey Madsen, Gerard Estella, Greg Kanz, EJ Swavv & Lincoln Ginsberg as we play classic songs reimagined.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.vibemusic.biz/about
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Dave Zollo
2024-07-09 18:30 - 20:00 | James Alan McPherson Park, 1858 7th Ave Ct, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Firmstone Real Estate

About: Since bursting onto the midwestern music scene with the band High and Lonesome in 1992, David Zollo has had a busy career. Along with constant touring, in the U.S and Europe, with High and Lonesome (1992-1998) and his current band, The Body Electric (1998-present) Zollo has recorded 7 records of his own material. Despite the many things Zollo has done during his career, it is as a live performer that many feel he’s at his best.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.davezollo.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/david.zollo/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBWcDyxS4LM

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10 of Soul
2024-07-07 15:00 - 16:00 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: This Quad Cities-based funk/soul band has been blowing up the Iowa/Illinois live music scene over the past twelve years. During that time, they have headlined many events, including the Iowa and Quad Cities Soul Festivals, the Bix Streetfest, Cedar Rapids’ Jazz Under the Stars, CR Market After Dark, Dubuque and All That Jazz, Beaverdale Fall Fest, River House and Tangled Wood concert series, and many more. They have also shared the stage/opened for Morris Day and the Time, Lalah Hathaway, Here Come the Mummies, the Travoltas, and many other national touring acts. During the “indoor” months, they can be seen at the Rhythm City and Riverside Casinos, as well as The Rust Belt, RIBCO, Rascals, the Redstone Room, and various weddings and corporate functions.

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Sam Ross Quintet
2024-07-07 14:00 - 15:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: The Sam Ross Quintet is a jazz combo made up of performers, composers, and educators. Sam Ross is a Iowa City based tenor saxophonist currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Iowa, where he studies with Dr. Damani Phillips. He will be joined by musicians including saxophonist Marvin Truong and pianist Carson Parker. With special emphasis on feel, culture, and historical aspects of the music, this group provides a great mix of new and original music.

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Trio Grismore
2024-07-07 13:00 - 14:00 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: A trio of friends since the early 1990’s, Steve Grismore, Mitch Towne and Tim Crumley have partnered up to create Trio Grismore. Their trio is a tribute to the classic guitar and organ trios first established in the 1950’s and 60’s. Drawing inspiration from the music of American jazz guitarist Grant Green, you will hear works either written or inspired by Green. But of course their music sends a nod out to a few of the great organists such as John Patton, Jimmy Smith, and Larry Young. You will also find in Trio Grismore, elements of saxophonists Lou Donaldson and Joe Henderson. An evening inspired by great music performed by great musicians

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Culinary Delights and Beverage Garden
2024-07-07 12:00 - 16:00 | Iowa Avenue, 105 Iowa Avenue, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Grab food from one (or more) of many vendors, then stop by the Beverage Garden!
Parents/Guardians: please note that you can bring minors into the Beverage Garden.
Last call in the Beverage Garden: 30 minutes before closing
Sales stop in the Beverage Garden: 15 minutes before closing

Artist Booths and Fun Stops
2024-07-07 12:00 - 16:00 | Clinton St., 10 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Check out the artist booths and Fun Stops on Clinton Street, as you go to and from the Main and Side stages! The artists feature a variety of items, and local organizations provide a range of activities at Fun Stops.

Reese Pike Trio
2024-07-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: The Reese Pike Trio is made up of Reese Pike on piano, Vivian Shanley on bass, and Brian Zeglis on drums. Reese and Vivian are currently students at Lawrence University, where they frequently perform together and are the co-presidents of the Jazz and Gender Equity Initiative. Reese is originally from Omaha, Nebraska and studies with Bill Carrothers and Dr. Catherine Kautsky. She is pursuing degrees in both music and Spanish. At Lawrence, Reese has been a member of Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble, jazz combos, Wind Ensemble, chamber music groups, and frequently accompanies both singers and instrumentalists. She was honored to be selected to perform with Carl Allen at the inauguration of Lawrence’s current president, Laurie Carter. Reese regularly performs in a wide variety of musical styles, including a solo piano performance of contemporary classical music written by Gabriela Lena Frank at the 2022 Omaha Under the Radar Festival. She has also opened for Champian Fulton. The winner of the 2020 Nebraska Jazz Orchestra Young Jazz Artist Competition, she is passionate about expanding representation within the jazz world.

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Jazz Brunch
2024-07-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Vue Rooftop, 328 S. Clinton Street Suite A, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Reserve your spot at the Jazz Brunch today! Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet accompanied by the sounds of the Murphy Fisher Quartet, and a beautiful view from Vue Rooftop. All proceeds support the Iowa City Jazz Festival.
Tickets
$35 adult; $15 children under 12

Jam Session with the Blake Shaw Quartet
2024-07-06 21:30 - 22:30 | Wilder, 210 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Just because the Jazz Fest ends for the night doesn’t mean there’s not more music! Head to Wilder at The Graduate Hotel to hear the sounds of Blake Shaw and one his many bands. In any way, shape, or form the band takes, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

Lakecia Benjamin and Phoenix
2024-07-06 20:00 - 21:30 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: 3x Grammy® Nominated and Voted by 2020 Downbeat Critics Poll Rising Star Alto Saxophonist and Up and Coming Artist of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association, charismatic and dynamic saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin fuses traditional conceptions of Jazz, HipHop, and Soul.

In addition to touring with her own band both domestically and internationally in 2023, Lakecia performed in more than 20 cities with the Monterey Jazz Festival All Stars, sharing the front line with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kurt Elling and the Christian Sands Trio. She served as the Guest Artistic Director for the Burlington Jazz Festival, presiding over one of the largest audiences in their history. She served as Artistic Director for the John and Alice Coltrane Jazz Festival in Philadelphia at the University of Pennsylvania and was named Artist in Residence at the 66th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival. Recently she was named “Jazz Scholar” by the Library of Congress for 2023.

Lakecia’s latest CD “Phoenix” produced by Terri Lyne Carrington, garnered 7 magazine covers and a New York Times cover of the Arts and Leisure Section. The album features Dianne Reeves, Angela Davis, Sonia Sanchez, Patrice Rushen, Georgia Anne Muldrow, and Wayne Shorter. A streetwise New York City native born and raised in Washington Heights; Lakecia Benjamin first picked up the saxophone at Fiorello LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts. From there she graduated from the renowned jazz program at New York’s New School University.

Contact Information:
Web: https://lakeciabenjamin.com/
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Ritmo-Quinto
2024-07-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: James Dreier’s Ritmocano project has now evolved into a smaller group with a new name – Ritmo-Quinto. This 3 – 4-piece band is able to accommodate some of the smaller live music venues available in eastern Iowa. Ritmo-Quinto features much of the same original and arranged Latin jazz music guaranteed to excite the listeners with tropical rhythms and stellar musicianship. The group features leader James Dreier (UI Emeritus Associate Professor in jazz) on congas, percussion and drum set, along with Askar Khaetov on electric bass, Dr. Ryan Smith on saxophones and flute, and Dr. Steve Shanley on Keyboards. Each of them bring their own years of experience and countless accolades to the stage for performances like no other.

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Matt Wilson's Good Trouble
2024-07-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Brock Family Music

About: Matt Wilson has released thirteen albums as a leader, appeared on more than 400 others as a sideman and has played with an impressive array of some of the most legendary names in jazz, including Wynton Marsalis, Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano, Pat Metheny, Dewey Redman, Charlie Haden, John Scofield, Joanne Brackeen and Herbie Hancock, just to name a few.
Wilson was named 2018 Musician of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association and his album, Honey And Salt (Music Inspired by the Poetry of Carl Sandburg), won the JJA’s Album of the Year Award. That recording and his previous, Beginning of a Memory, accomplished the rare feat of an artist receiving consecutive 5-star (masterpiece) reviews from DownBeat magazine.
Wilson’s commitment to jazz goes far beyond his estimable skills as a drummer and bandleader. Also, a renowned educator, he is on a tireless mission to foster a lively and deep connection between music and people, whether they be playing or listening to it.

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Tobi Crawford Trio
2024-07-06 17:00 - 18:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: Tobi Crawford is a highly sought-after vocalist, pianist, arranger and educator from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Tobi taught at the high school level in Canada for 10 years, teaching choirs, bands and music theory before moving to Shanghai, China where she was the Fine Arts Department head and Director of Music at Sino-Canada High School for 5 years. Tobi recently graduated with a Master’s degree in Jazz Voice Performance from the esteemed University of North Texas where she served as a teaching fellow. Tobi is currently the Co-Director of Music at the School for Music Vocations, teaching Theory, Arranging, Freshman and Sophomore Jazz Piano, while directing First Take and Chamber Singers

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Emiliano Lasansky
2024-07-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: Born and raised in Iowa City, Iowa and currently residing in Los Angeles, CA, Emiliano currently maintains a busy schedule as a performer across the West Coast and beyond. Recent highlights include a 2024 Ravinia Steans Music Institute Bridges Competition – David Baker Prize and 2023 ASCAP Founda/on – Herb Alpert composition award, and a master’s degree from the prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA (formerly the Thelonious Monk Institute).

After he finished his undergraduate studies at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, Emiliano relocated to the New York City area to pursue a performance career. In 2019 Emiliano was awarded third prize in the Scott LaFaro Bass Competition at the International Society of Bassists conference.

In 2020 he was selected by Herbie Hancock, Ambrose Akinmusire, and Herb Alpert to join the 13th class of the Herbie Hancock Institute, completing the program in 2023. Emiliano’s debut album The Optimist (Outside In Music Label) was release in June, 2024. Emiliano currently maintains a busy schedule leading his quartet in performances across the country. Additionally, he is an in-demand side-person, composer, arranger, producer, and educator.

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Jackson Churchill and Good Question
2024-07-06 15:00 - 16:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: Jackson Churchill currently serves as a Band Director at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa. He is also a Teaching Artist of Jazz Trombone at Drake University. Jackson has been a finalist in numerous competitions facilitated by the International Trombone Association, American Trombone Workshop, and Jazz Trombone Day. His performance credits include the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Christian McBride’s JAS Academy Big Band, and the Broadway tour of “The Wiz.” Jackson completed his master’s degree at the University of North Texas, where he studied with acclaimed artist Nick Finzer and played in the One O’Clock Lab Band. Before that, Jackson graduated summa cum laude from Luther College, where he was a Theodore Presser Music Scholar. He is joined on stage by Good Question, his band that includes Jon Ailabouni, Mike Conrad, Steven Heffner, and Andrew Gjersvik.

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The Blake Shaw BIG(ish) Band
2024-07-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
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Kiersten Conway Trio
2024-07-06 13:00 - 14:00 | Oaknoll Side Stage-Iowa City Jazz Festival, 25 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
About: Kiersten Conway is a dynamic songwriter, contemporary jazz vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist known for her inventive interpretations of jazz standards and compelling original compositions. A native of Iowa City, she has performed at top venues including Noce Jazz Club and Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines, and has been featured at the Iowa City Jazz Festival.
In 2024, Kiersten brought her artistry to the Rochester International Jazz Festival, sharing the stage with Laila Biali, and also performed at the prestigious Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans. A three-time recipient of the DownBeat Student Music Awards (2023–2025), she was recognized as a Vocal Jazz Soloist, for her original composition “Black-Eyed Susan,” and as an Outstanding Soloist in a Large Vocal Jazz Ensemble.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.kierstenconway.com/
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North Corridor All Stars
2024-07-06 12:15 - 12:55 | Strauss Community Stage – Iowa City Jazz Festival, 16 N Clinton Street, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by West Music

About: The North Corridor All-Star is made up of musicians from high schools along the north I-380 corridor and is under the direction of Coe College music professor, Steve Shanley. Individuals in this group have been recognized as members or alternates of the prestigious Iowa All-State Jazz Band, and all are pursuing private jazz studies. They are honored to be a part of this year’s festival and look forward to performing a mix of original compositions and standards.

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