To perform at the legendary Apollo Theater venue Apollo Music Cafe in Harlem was one of the highlights of the whole experience from Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead 2016. Even though our flat tire on the bus which made us stop five hours on the high way, I was more than excited to finally perform and sing my songs for a new audience. It was incredible. Being there at that venue. Singing and doing what I love to do. Being together with friends that will last for a lifetime. So much joy! I am so grateful for everything that has been given to me through this program at the Kennedy Center.
New Voices in Jazz
“A collaboration with John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead features 24 next generation musicians in their mid-teens to age 25 performing swinging and contemporary, original works as a closing event of a preceding two-week residency program at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
Under the direction of Jason Moran, Kennedy Center Artistic Director for Jazz, the Jazz Ahead faculty* include Carmen Lundy, Andre Hayward, Cyrus Chestnut, Eric Revis, J D Allen, and Eric Harland.
Betty Carter, who possessed one of this era’s most extraordinary voices, was devoted to jazz education. Her Jazz Ahead program, which she brought to the Kennedy Center in 1998 from the Brooklyn Academy of Music, has helped launch the careers of several of today’s stars, including Cyrus Chestnut, Jason Moran, and Jacky Terrasson.”
Chillin’ back stage with the girls at Apollo Theater. I’m wondering who have been here before me… It’s a legendary place! Wow.
Me and Julius Rodriguez, an amazingly talented musician!
Me and Jason Moran, the artistic director of Betty Carter Jazz Ahead and an amazing musician I admire so much.
The whole ‘class’ of Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead 2016 plus faculty Jason Moran, Carmen Lundy, Cyrus Chestnut. I am already missing everyone a lot.
Selma and Emily, NYC
Celebration at Harlem Shake, NYC
Me and David Léon, an alto-player I will miss!
That was the end of our night! I am so grateful to perform my own music at a venue such as the Apollo Theater. Hopefully it was not the last time and I am looking forward to come back!