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UrbanBeat proudly presents the Walter Blanding Series, honoring the illustrious career and musical vision of saxophonist, educator, and composer Walter Blanding. Throughout three decades, Blanding has journeyed across continents, sharing his musical passion with audiences worldwide. From his formative years in New York City to his tenure as a Jazz Ambassador in Israel and China, Blanding's trajectory embodies a dedication to cultural exchange and the profound influence of music. Join us as we explore Blanding's diverse artistic journey through captivating performances and enlightening discussions. Each event begins with an interactive dialogue, igniting our collective imagination as we embark on a musical odyssey together.Walter Blanding's upcoming tour with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), featuring Wynton Marsalis, includes performances in New York, NY for the Wayne Shorter Celebration, as well as stops in Tarrytown, Troy, Stowe, and Portland, spanning the states of New York, Vermont, and Maine. These engagements highlight Blanding's collaborative spirit and his commitment to honoring jazz legends while infusing his own distinctive style into audiences across the Northeastern United States.
Christopher Minami is a native of Tampa and a graduate assistant at Michigan State University. He holds undergraduate degrees in classical guitar and jazz from Florida State University’s College of Music. As a versatile performer, Christopher continues to play globally with a wide range of artists, including the Tallahassee Symphony Jazz Orchestra, Walter Blanding, Rodney Whitaker, and other renowned jazz musicians.
Randy Gillespie is an esteemed instructor of jazz drums at Michigan State University's College of Music. A professional jazz drummer since his high school years, Gillespie has toured with legends like Wes Montgomery, Sonny Stitt, Dinah Washington, Etta Jones, Lou Donaldson, and Gene Ammons. His extensive performance career in the Detroit area includes collaborations with jazz icons such as Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson, Dizzy Gillespie, and Geri Allen. He has also worked with blues greats like Jimmy Witherspoon, John Lee Hooker, and Big Maybelle, and continues to play with many of Michigan’s top jazz musicians.
Jim Alfredson, based in Lansing, Michigan, grew up in a musical household. Influenced by his father, a professional musician, Jim developed a passion for music early on, especially for the Hammond B3 organ. His fascination with the instrument began at age four, leading him on a journey through synthesizers and multitrack machines before rediscovering the Hammond B3 at sixteen. Jim has dedicated himself to exploring new possibilities within the rich tradition of this iconic instrument, continuing to push the boundaries of its sound.
Doors at 5pm, show at 7:30pm. Dinner menu and bar are available for an additional cost.
Tickets $25 General Admission, $10 Student
https://urbanbeat.ticketspice.com/soulstanton
📍 UrbanBeat
1213 Turner Rd
Lansing, MI
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
1213 Turner St, Lansing, MI, United States, Michigan 48906
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