St. Petersburg Jazz Festival

Ongoing Benefit Concerts 
 

The St. Petersburg Jazz Festival through its parent organization EMIT, programs concerts throughout the year.   

2023-24 season upcoming events:

Ronnie Dee & Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, February 27 at 7:30 PM
presented by EMIT
 

5th generation vocalist, composer and multi-instrumentalist Ronnie Dee is a consummate entertainer who puts his body, heart and soul into every performance. As leader of several Tampa Bay bands, he plays all genres of music but has a special love for the music of Frank Sinatra and his pals in the Rat Pack. This concert features several selections from the legendary recording Sinatra at the Sands as well as other Rat Pack, blues and jump songs.

Fred Johnson & Helios Jazz Orchestra
Friday,  December 1
Warehouse Arts District
 

Join us for "Jazz and Politics: Harmony & Discourse," a groundbreaking concert series presented by EMIT, the Warehouse Arts District and Arts Axis. This concert unites the captivating sound of jazz music with thought-provoking conversations on social issues. Singer Fred Johnson joins the 17-member Helios Jazz Orchestra (directed by David Manson) in a concert of great jazz music. Fred Johnson is a renown jazz singer, but his contribution to the Bay area culture cuts a far broader swath than that. Over the years, he’s been and remains an educator, mentor, social justice activist, peace advocate, arts advocate, healer and community organizer, not to mention an all-around gentleman. The 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra is directed by Dr. David Manson and has performed on the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Ybor Jazz Fest, WMNF Jazz Fest and St. Petersburg Jazz Festival. The program features jazz favorites including “Pennies From Heaven", "Every Day I Have the Blues", "Almost Like Being in Love" and others.

Preceding the 7:30 PM concert, there is a round table discussion about food insecurity in St. Petersburg at 6:30 PM. Enjoy this outstanding concert at the outdoor ArtsXchange Stage in the Warehouse Arts District in St. Pete! 

October 24 - Jamie Perlow & Helios Jazz Orchestra
at the Palladium Theater Side Door
7:30 PM

Jamie Perlow joins the 17-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra as guest singer in a special program of big band favorites. Jamie is an extraordinary area singer and songwriter with radio and television credits. Her expressive style, full voice and flawless intonation set her apart. Selections include “I Love Being Here With You", “Orange Colored Sky,” “Too Close for Comfort” and many more! The Helios Jazz Orchestra is directed by Dr. David Manson, and is comprised of some of the finest jazz musicians in the area. Tickets are available at www.mypalladium.org

October 5 - José Valentino & Eternal Power
at the Music Center at St. Petersburg College

 

October 7- Dimas Sanchez and the Afro Latin Jazz Project 
at the ArtsXchange Stage in the Warehouse Arts District
7:30 PM, $15 advance tickets on Eventbrite, $20 at the door
 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Kpa6T15bps
Dimas Sanchez and The Afro Latin Jazz Project will perform Jazz, influenced by the sounds of Afro Puerto Rican, Afro Cuban and Afro Brazilian music with the rhythms from The Congo executed by the master percussionist Thobos Lubamba. As a performer Dimas has a vast experience with Afro Caribbean Rhythms and with Jazz. Thobos Lubamba is an internationally recognized master percussionist specializing in Congolese music. Personnel: Pablo Arencibia - Piano, Mauricio Rodriguez - Bass, Jorge Malave - Saxophone, Jochy Rodriguez - Trumpet, Dimas Sanchez - Drums, Percussion, Ito Colon – Percussion, Thobos Lubamba - African percussion. Presented by EMIT, St. Petersburg Jazz Festival, WADA, ArtsXchange, SPC, Arts Axis & WUSF-FM. The ArtsXchange Stage is located at 515 22nd St South in St. Petersburg.
 

Sunday, April 30 at 7 PM
International Jazz Day with O Som Do Jazz
 

O Som Do Jazz performs on Sunday, April 30 on the new outdoor stage built at the Ware House Arts District (WADA). This is an event for the UNESCO International Jazz Day. From 6-7 you can meet the director and cast members of Sincopa, at 7 - 8 PM O Som Do Jazz performs samba, Bossa Nova & Baião and then at 8 PM there is the U.S. Premiere of the Mexican film Sincopa. 

Tuesday, April 11 at 7 PM
Jazz in the Stacks with O Som Do Jazz
 

Brazilian jazz band O Som Do Jazz gives a free concert at the West St. Petersburg Community Library located at 6700 8th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710. It's on the campus of St. Petersburg College. O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of international musicians playing samba, Bossa Nova, MPB, Baião and more. The concert starts at 7 PM so don't be late! Presented by EMIT & the Friends of the West Community Library.

 

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2023 AT 5 PM

ERG at the Salvador Dali Museum
 

EMIT & the Salvador Dali Museum are presenting ERG on March 28 featuring David Pate (saxophone/flute), Tom Kersey (cello), TJ Glowacki (double bass), Jim Stewart (drums) and David Manson (trombone). The modern jazz group will perform compositions by David Manson inspired by the exhibit "The Shape of Dreams". For tickets, see https://tickets.thedali.org/webstore/shop/viewitems.aspx...

The 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by Dr. David Manson, backs vocalist Sonja Spence in a big band show.

Sonja Spence is a seasoned jazz vocalist with a warm, resonant voice well suited to traditional jazz standards and swing. Her singing and style are influenced by jazz greats Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn. Tickets are available at www.mypalladium.org .

Nova Musica - New Works by David Manson for O Som Do Jazz
Saturday, November 12 at 1 PM
Creative Pinellas at the Florida Botanical Gardens
Free concert!
 

David Manson premieres his original Brazilian-inspired jazz compositions on Friday, October 21 at 6 PM in the Music Center. Joining him in this free concert is Brazilian music group O Som Do Jazz performing new works of samba, Bossa Nova, Afoxé and Baião. O Som Do Jazz players include Andrea Moraes Manson (voice), Alex Malkovich (saxophone & guitar), John O'Leary (piano), Alejandro Arenas (bass), Mark Feinman (drums) and David Manson (trombone).

Manson is a recipient of the John Collins Arts Endowment, Individual Artist Grant through the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance and a Pinellas Recovers Grant through Creative Pinellas and the National Endowment for the Arts. This free concert is made available through these grants and EMIT. Creative Pinellas is located at 12211 Walsingham Rd, Largo, FL 33778.
 

Nova Musica - New Works by David Manson for O Som Do Jazz
Friday, October 21 at 6 PM
Leepa-Rattner Museum at St

. Petersburg College - Tarpon Springs campus

 

Jaap Blonk on the EMIT series
Sunday, October 16 at 3 PM
Tully-Levine Gallery in the Arts Warehouse District
 

EMIT & the Warehouse Arts District present Dutch vocal artist Jaap Blonk performing one of the key works of the Dada movement, a poem existing of nothing but (mostly) meaningless syllables: the Ursonate by Kurt Schwitters, a masterpiece, written between 1923 and 1932. Jaap is joined by improvisers Jim Stewart (drums), Tom Kersey (cello) and David Manson (trombone) in a freeform exploration of sound. Renowned Dutch vocalist and sound poet Jaap Blonk is unique for his powerful stage presence and almost childlike freedom in improvisation, combined with a keen grasp of structure.

“Blonk’s avant-garde performances channel the provocatively pioneering nonsense of Dadaism. His work is tremendously complex, but his brilliance makes it easy to think the opposite.” (San Francisco Weekly)

Admission is $15 available at https://www.eventbrite.com/.../jaap-blonk-on-the-emit...

EMIT Latin Jazz Fest!

Martin Bejerano Trio on the EMIT Latin Jazz Fest
Thursday, October 6 at 7:30 PM
Music Center at St. Petersburg College

Award-winning pianist and composer Martin Bejerano leads a trio playing original music influenced by the his Cuban and American roots. The #CubanAmerican Suite, commissioned by Chamber Music America, will be performed at the SPC Music Center on Thursday, October 6 at 7:30 PM. This concert is part of the EMIT Latin Jazz Fest and celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.

With extraordinary technical command of the piano, a highly modern harmonic and rhythmic concept, and a commitment to lyricism and musicality, Martin has continually garnered critical praise across the world. He has perfomed with the Christian McBride Band, Dave Holland, Pat Metheny, Ron Carter, Ignacio Berroa, Lonnie Plaxico, Bryan Lynch, Adam Nussbaum, Roy Hargrove, Arturo Sandoval, Mingus Big Band, Marcus Strickland, E.J. Strickland, John Faddis, Wycliffe Gordon and many others. Martin is lead piano professor at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami. Joining him is Edward Perez (bass) and Ludwig Alfonso (drums). Support for this concert also comes from EMIT, St. Petersburg College, Creative Pinellas and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Admission is free for SPC faculty and students with an ID. General admission is $20 available from https://www.eventbrite.com/.../martin-bejerano-trio-on...
 

MJR Latin Project on the EMIT Latin Jazz Fest
Friday, October 7 at 7:30 PM
Bayboro Brewing

 

The second concert on the EMIT Latin Jazz Fest features Mauricio J Rodriguez, a well-known Cuban bass player and composer ,and his band with some of the finest musicians in the area: a Grammy winning saxophonist, Zach Bornheimer, pianist Pablo Arencibia; drummer Andy Fornet (of Orquesta Revé and Charanga Habanera, Cuba); and conguero and percussionist Dimas Sanchez. The venue is a recently constructed music venue at Bayboro Brewery located at 2390 5th Ave South in St. Petersburg. It's a great venue in the Arts Warehouse District with fine craft beers and food. General admission is $10 available from Eventbrite at http://www.eventbrite.com/.../mjr-latin-project-emit...

The Latin Knights & O Som Do Jazz on the EMIT Latin Jazz Fest
Saturday, October 8 at 3 PM
Museum of American Arts and Crafts Movement
FREE ADMISSION!
 

FREE Concert! - The Latin Knights and Brazilian band O Som Do Jazz finish the Latin Jazz Fest with a free concert in the beautiful Museum of American Arts and Crafts Movement in St. Petersburg.

Enjoy this gorgeous museum, have a cocktail from the concession and listen to great Latin jazz. This free concert is brought to you by EMIT, the National Endowment for the Arts, Creative Pinellas, the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, MAACM and the City of St. Petersburg.

Larry Camp Duo at the Warehouse Arts District ArtWalk
August 13 - 6:30-8:15 PM
Tully-Levine Gallery located at 515 22nd St South in Saint Petersburg
Free admission!

The Larry Camp Duo plays jazz at the Tully-Levine Gallery during ArtWalk on August 13. This free jazz event is presented by EMIT, an adventurous nonprofit music organization.

Larry Camp is Tampa Bay’s quintessential jazz guitarist. Born in Virginia, he learned his craft along the East Coast and at the University of Miami. He has been hailed by Musician Magazine as ‘one of the ten best unknown jazz guitar players in the U.S.’ He has played at the Kennedy Center for the President, the Smithsonian Jazz Series, as well as jazz festivals in Europe, in Clearwater, and Sarasota, Florida.

Bassist Joe Porter performed with the Maynard Ferguson Big Bop Nouveau band on a world tour from 2001-2003. During his tenure he also had the chance to perform with singer Diane Schuur. He freelances and teaches music here in the Tampa Bay area.

O Som Do Jazz at St. Pete Pride
Sunday, June 16
11 AM & FREE!
 

O Som Do Jazz is playing a free concert outdoors at the Zoie's Stage @ the MARket in Grand Central on Sunday, June 26 at 11 AM. It's part of St. Pete Pride and sponsored by Zoie's (a great new restaurant), the Mar and the nonprofit EMIT. The location is Central Ave. & 23rd St. in St. Petersburg.

Jazz in the Stacks with the EMIT6tet
Thursday, April 7 at 7 PM
West Community Library

FREE!
 

The 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by Dr. David Manson, backs California vocalist & pianist Scotty Wright in a big band show.

Jazz vocalist Scotty Wright is a veteran musician with over 40 years of experience. With a warm, rich-toned voice, tremendous range, and relaxed delivery, Scotty possesses a unique sound that is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. A multifaceted jazz artist, Scotty is a gifted singer, pianist, actor, teacher, and author who has traveled the world performing jazz in over 20 countries including China, Thailand, Japan, Dubai, and Jordan.

The program will feature great jazz gems like “Sack of Woe” by Cannonball Adderley, “Jeannine” by Duke Pearson, and timeless jazz vocal selections.

Jazz in the Quad - a free concert!
Friday, October 1
the quad at St. Petersburg College

Enjoy a free concert of Latin Jazz on the quad at St. Petersburg College on Friday, October 1.

Bring your blankets or lawn chairs to the quad inside the campus to hear the MJR Latin Project led my Mauricio Rodriguez opening the concert at 6 PM. Brazilian group O Som Do Jazz is second on the program. It's a free concert in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month presented by the St. Petersburg College Student Life, Arts Humanities & Design, EMIT, St. Petersburg Arts Alliance and Florida Arts & Culture. St. Petersburg College is located at 6605 5th Ave. North in St. Petersburg.

Sunday, August 8 at 7:30 PM
The Duane Eubanks “Things of that Particular Nature” 2021 Southeast Tour
 

Duane Eubanks is an extraordinary musical talent and he possess unique virtuoso skill and brilliance as a trumpeter,composer and band leader. His quintet’s onstage presentation is a straight-ahead post-bop style jazz presentation reminiscent in delivery of Miles Davis and Lee Morgan with a modern progressive emphasis and vibe.

Featuring: Duane Eubanks – Trumpet/Flugelhorn, Abraham Burton – Tenor Sax, David Bryant – Piano, Dezron Douglas – Bass & Eric McPherson – Drums. Admission is $25 available at www.mypalladium.org
 

Latin Jazz Fest – July 9-11, 2021 at the Palladium Theater
produced by David Manson & EMIT

Friday, July 9 at 7:30 PM

MJR Latin Project & Friends
 

This performance will mix original work composed by Mauricio J. Rodriguez and Vicente Viloria, with a mixture of the new Cuban contemporary music and some Latin jazz staples.

This concert highlights music from their CD "Luz" produced by Mauricio and Vicente. Joining this performance will be Zachary Bornheimer- saxophone, John W. Richardson- piano, Andy Forner- drums, Sergio Gala- percussion, Mauricio Rodriguez- bass. Special guests include Richie Viruet on trumpet, Renesito Avich on Cuban Tres and Guitar, and Orlando “Landy” Mosqueda, on percussion and piano.

Saturday, July 10 at 7:30 PM

Gumbi Ortiz & New Groove City

Gumbi Ortiz is known around the world for his exciting conga performance and his knowledge of rhythm and percussion. Born Gamaliel Ortiz in the South Bronx to a Puerto Rican father and Cuban mother, Gumbi has been superstar guitarist Al Di Meola’s main percussionist for more than 25 years. The group features top Latin jazz artists Butch Thomas – saxophone, Kenny Walker – bass, Aron Ferre – keyboards, Luis Alicea – drums & Gumbi Ortiz – percussion.

Sunday, July 11 at 7:30 PM
Tabajara Belo & O Som Do Jazz
 

Brazilian guitarist Tabajara Belo opens the show with a solo set and then joins Brazilian jazz group O Som Do Jazz for the second set. Tabajara Belo is one of the outstanding Brazilian musicians of his generation making a name for himself as a virtuoso guitar soloist, composer and arranger. Along with his solo career, Tabajara has collaborated with prestigious artists throughout Brazil including Wagner Tiso, Claudio Nucci, Paulo Bellinati, Marina Machado, Déa Trancoso, Marcus Viana, Vander Lee, Paula Santoro and the Amaranto trio.

O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of experienced musicians performing Samba, Bossa Nova, Choro, Balanço, Baião and MPB.   Group members include Andrea Moraes Manson – vocalist, Latin GRAMMY awardee Jose Valentino Ruiz – flute & saxophone, David Manson – trombone, Bruno Miranda – piano, Alejandro Arenas – bass, Mark Feinman – drums & Tabajara Belo – guitar.

Adolfo Mendonca Trio & Friends

Friday, February 1 at 7 PM
Studio@620 in St. Petersburg
 

Sao Paulo pianist Adolfo Mendonça scheduled on the EMIT series for Feb. 1 at Studio@620.  This concert is a teaser for the upcoming St. Petersburg Jazz Festival, scheduled Feb. 26 – March 1.

With an unusual and unique piano trio style, the set list includes American favorites like Jobim and Marcos Valle, and hidden treasures of Brazilian music, including “Choro”, the music of Milton Nascimento, Djavan and many others, covering almost 100 years of Brazilian music history. Vocalist Andrea Thompson and trombonist David Manson join the trio for selections.

http://www.thestudioat620.org

SHIM, Klimchak & Andrew Levine
Sunday, January 19 at 6 PM
Safety Harbor Art & Music center (SHAMc)

 

We have a concert of experimental music at SHAMc on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 6 PM.  It’s for the “Strong of Ear”, but it will be an exceptional concert including homemade instruments, hyper-instruments and TWO theremins!

Avant-jazz quintet SHIM opens, followed by the amazing experimentalists Klimchak and Andrew Levine.  Nonprofits EMIT & SHAMc are presenting. The admission is only $5.

SHAMc is located at 706 2nd St N. in Safety Harbor, FL 34695.

New Latin Jazz with José Valentino Ruiz & David Manson
Tuesday, November 26 at 7:30 PM

The Palladium Theater Side Door

 

The José Valentino Trio with Bruno Miranda (piano), Jesse Pitts (drums) and José (bass) will perform original music written by José Valentino Ruiz. Following intermission, Brazilian jazz group O Som Do Jazz, with singer Andrea Moraes Manson, José Valentino Ruiz, Bruno Miranda, Kenny Walker, Jesse Pitts and David Manson will perform Manson’s new Brazilian-inspired works from his recently release CD with O Som Do Jazz titled, Go!. The program ranges from funk, salsa, samba, Bossa Nova to Baião. The Side Door at the Palladium Theater is located at 253 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg.  See www.mypalladium.org

Oba Brasil with O Som Do Jazz & François de Lima
Friday, November 15
8 PM
 

It’s a show of grooving samba, Bossa Nova, Balanço and MPB with Brazilian valve trombonist François de Lima & O Som Do Jazz!

François de Lima has performed with Jorge Benjor, Ney Matogrosso, Gal Costa and Djavan, doing shows at clubs and festivals around the world. He’s also recorded with Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Milton Nascimento, and performed with Leny Andrade, Leila Pinheiro, Hermeto Pascoal, Flora Purim and Airto Moreira, César Camargo Mariano, Raul de Souza, Paulo Moura, Wagner Tiso, Dominguinhos and international musicians such as Paquito D’Rivera, Randy Brecker, George Benson and Gonzalo Rubalcaba.

O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of skilled musicians from Brazil, Colombia and the U.S. The group has released three CDs and performed on music festivals throughout the South. Their original music has been placed in shows on HBO, Fox & BBC One. Doors open at 7 PM and the concerts begins at 8 PM. Check out their website at www.osomdojazz.com and get info at https://wslr.org/fogartyville/

Jamie Perlow, Bryan Hughes & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, October 29
7:30 PM
 

The 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by Dr. David Manson, backs singers Jamie Perlow & Bryan Hughes.

Jamie Perlow is an extraordinary area singer and songwriter with radio and television credits. Her expressive style, full voice and flawless intonation set her apart. She performs regularly with the Florida Bjorkestra project and is a favorite with the Helios Jazz Orchestra. Playing in clubs from the JazzKeller in Frankfurt, Germany to The Jazz Voyeur in Buenos Aires, singer/songwriter, Bryan J Hughes, has been a fixture on the bay area music scene for the past 10 years.

Scotty Wright & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, September 10
7:30 PM
 

The 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by Dr. David Manson, backs California vocalist Scotty Wright in a big band show at the Side Door.
 
Jazz vocalist Scotty Wright is a veteran musician with over 40 years of experience. With a warm, rich-toned voice, tremendous range and relaxed delivery, Scotty possesses a unique sound that is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. A multifaceted jazz artist, Scotty is a gifted singer, pianist, actor, teacher, and author who has traveled the world performing jazz in over 20 countries including China, Thailand, Japan, Dubai, and Jordan.
 
The program will feature great jazz gems like “One for Daddy-O” by Nat Adderly, “September in the Rain” and the premiere of a new jazz composition by director David Manson. It will be an unforgettable evening of great big band jazz in an intimate cabaret setting!  The Side Door at the Palladium Theater is located at 253 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg.  See www.mypalladium.org
 

Oba Brazil!

O Som Do jazz with Andrea Moraes Manson & José Valentino Ruiz!
Sunday, June 9

7 PM
 

Brazilian sextet O Som Do Jazz with Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson, gives a special concert of samba, Bossa Nova & MPB with Latin GRAMMY nominee and special guest, José Valentino Ruiz!

With musicians from Brazil, Colombia, Puerto Rico and the U.S., O Som Do Jazz will perform Brazilian music by Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Donato, Baden Powell, Carlos Lyra and compositions by David Manson from the new O Som Do Jazz CD, "Go!".  See the O Som Do Jazz website at www.osomdojazz.com or listen to Go! at https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/osomdojazz3 .

Admission is $20 only at the door. The First Unity Spiritual Campus is located at 460 46th Ave. North in St. Petersburg. Call (727) 341-4363 for more information.:

Helios Swingtet with Jamie Perlow
Tuesday, April 2 at 7:30 PM
West St. Petersburg Community Library

The 9-piece Helios Swingtet backs singer Jamie Perlow in a Jazz in the Stacks free concert at the West St. Petersburg Community Library located on the campus of St. Petersburg College: 6700 8th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Diego Figueiredo & O Som Do Jazz
Friday, January 18 at 8 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater

“One of the greatest guitarists I’ve seen in my whole life”
–George Benson

 

Brazilian guitar master Diego Figueiredo performs a solo first set, then joins Brazilian sextet O Som Do Jazz for an evening of incredible music! This new concert program “From Classical to Jazz,” is a fusion between Jazz, Bossa Nova and Classical music.

Figueiredo is a new star of the guitar world. At the age of 37, he has released 23 CDs, 3 DVDs, and played in more than 60 countries around the world.

O Som Do Jazz is a Brazilian jazz sextet featuring Rio de Janiero vocalist Andrea Manson with Bruno Miranda (piano), Mauricio Rodriguez (bass), Jesse Pitts (drums) & David Manson (trombone/percussion). The group specializes in Samba, Bossa Nova, MPB and Baião. See www.mypalladium.org for tickets.

License to Thrill - Helios Plays Spy Music
Tuesday, November 20 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Theater
 

The expanded 21-member Helios Jazz Orchestra presents a show of legendary spy music, joined by singers Jamie Perlow, Andrea Manson, Sonja Spence & Ronnie Dee.
 
Enjoy an evening of guilty musical pleasure as we revisit the theme music of the James Bond series, Mission Impossible, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Austin Powers, The Prisoner and more, directed by arranger/conductor David Manson. It can be cheesy, silly and yet sublime, but you know that you secretly love the driving 60s grooves, fierce brass, sexy saxophones and hot percussion (with special guest Gumbi Ortiz). With Jamie, Andrea, Sonja and Ronnie singing their hearts out on favorites like Thunderball,” “Nobody Does It Better,” “Goldfinger,” and “Skyfall” with a massive jazz big band, you know that this will be a very special show!  Se https://www.mypalladium.org/helios-jazz-orchestra-license-to-thrill/ .

Exquisite Corpse International
Thursday, November 1 at 8 PM
St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Art
see http://exquisitecorpsegames.com/ecg-2018-participants/

Jose Valentino Ruiz & O Som Do Jazz
Tuesday, October 30
Side Door at the Palladium Theater
 

Guest flutist/saxophonist José Valentino Ruiz joins O Som Do Jazz in a special concert of Brazilian samba, Bossa Nova & MPB.

Dr. José Valentino Ruiz is a two-time Latin GRAMMY-nominated multi-instrumentalist, composer, record producer and educator. During his academic studies, José become the record holder for the most International DownBeat Music Awards – 49 awards total, between 2006 –2018. He is winner of the International Yamaha Young Performing Artist Competition and National Flute Association Jazz Flute Competition. José has collaborated with acclaimed artists including Chick Corea, Paquito D’Rivera, Hubert Laws, Candido Camero, Jim Walker, Phil Ramone, Jonathan Butler, Alex Acuña, Aaron Neville, Brian Lynch, Nestor Torres, Dave Valentin, Andy Montanez, Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Dave Cleveland, and Abraham Laboriel, just to name a few.
 
O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson with Alejandro Arenas (bass), Jeremy Douglass (keys), Mark Feinman (drums) and David Manson (trombone/percussion). With three CDs and placement of originals on HBO, FOX and BBC One, O Som Do Jazz (the sound of jazz in Portuguese) recaptures the grace, energy and spirit of 1960s Brazilian music.

See https://www.mypalladium.org/o-som-do-jazz-with-jose-valentino-ruiz/ .

Belinda Womack & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, October 2 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater

EMIT presents, singer Belinda Womack with the 18-member Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, in a program of great big band favorites including “Watch What Happens”, “Blue Skies”, “Cry Me A River” and others!

Belinda began singing professionally at age 11 to help support her family in rural Georgia. From 1973 to 1981, Belinda was based in Nashville working as a singer at Combine Recording Studios and also touring with a popular band called Bodyheat. In ’79, she scored #12 Billboard disco hit called “Seabiscuit in the Fifth” as Belinda West. Soon after, she came to Tampa where she became a mainstay in the jazz scene with her group Kool Reflektions. In the mid-90s, she pursued music ministry and motivational speaking, traveling from the Netherlands to Africa, to South America, the Caribbean and West Indies. The Helios Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of David Manson, has been featured on the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, St. Petersburg Jazz Festival and Ybor Jazz Festival.  It is comprised of top area jazz musicians who love the sound of a roaring jazz big band! See www.mypalladium.org for tickets. The Palladium Theater is located at 253 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg.

past events:

Francois de Lima & O Som Do Jazz
Thursday, Sept. 5 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater
 

Presented by EMIT & The Palladium - It’s a show of grooving samba, Bossa Nova and MPB with Brazilian valve trombonist François de Lima & O Som Do Jazz!

François de Lima began playing trombone at 10 years of age, and at 16 was playing professionally in Brazil. In the 80s he performed with Fabio Jr, Roberto Carlos, Jorge Benjor, Ney Matogrosso and Djavan (with whom he plays today), doing shows at clubs and festivals around the world. Gal Costa presented him at Carnegie Hall. In parallel he developed his work as a musician in the studio, recording with artists like Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Ney Matogrosso, Milton Nascimento, and Julio Iglesias Guinga, and others. In addition, François has performed with Leny Andrade, Leila Pinheiro, Hermeto Pascoal, Flora Purim and Airto Moreira, César Camargo Mariano, Raul de Souza, Paulo Moura, Wagner Tiso, Dominguinhos and international musicians such as Paquito D’Rivera, Randy Brecker, George Benson and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of experienced musicians performing Bossa Nova, samba, balanço and MPB. Band members also include Regis Moreira (piano), Alejandro Arenas (bass), David Manson (trombone/percussion), and Mark Feinman (drums). O Som Do Jazz (the sound of jazz in Portuguese) recaptures the grace, energy and spirit of 1960-80s Brazilian music.

Hot Nights/Cool Jazz
Thursday, August 31
7-9:30 PM
Imagine Museum

EMIT co-sponsors jazz music for this new event series at the Imagine Museum located at 1901 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713. Check out the amazing contemporary studio glass art and live jazz from the EMIT 4tet with Butch Thomas, Kevin Wilder, David Manson & Alejandro Arenas.

Jamie Perlow & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, May 22 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater
 

Jamie Perlow joins the Helios Jazz Orchestra as guest singer in a special program of big band favorites. Jamie is an extraordinary area singer and songwriter with radio and television credits. Her expressive style, full voice and flawless intonation set her apart.

The Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, is an 18-piece jazz big band made up of the finest jazz musicians in the Tampa Bay area. Enjoy cabaret seating and hear big band jazz in an intimate setting.
 

O Som Do Jazz
April 17 at 7 PM
West St. Petersburg Community Library
FREE!
 

Brazilian sextet O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janiero singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of skilled jazz musicians performing the most beautiful music on the planet... in a LIBRARY?  Check it out.  It's free!  The West St. Petersburg Public Library is located on the Gibbs campus of St. Petersburg College at 6605 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg.

FREE Session with Diego Figueiredo & Chiara Izzi
Thursday, March 15 at 5:30 PM
HS 117 at St. Petersburg College
 

~FREE and OPEN TO ALL~

MIRA at St. Petersburg College and EMIT, Inc welcome two international touring musicians for a free music workshop open to all students and the public.

Italian singer, Chiara Izzi and Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo will perform together and talk about their experiences as traveling and recording artists playing many styles under the Jazz umbrella. Both Chiara and Diego recently performed at the Sarasota Jazz Festival and will be joined by SPC Professors Alejandro Arenas (bass) & Mark Feinman (drums) in this interactive workshop. St. Petersburg College is located at 6605 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg.

O Som Do Jazz
Oct. 28 & 29 at 3:30 PM
SPIFFS Folk Fair at Vinoy Park

 

Brazilian jazz group O Som Do Jazz is performing on the SPIFFS
43rd festival. EMIT is cosponsoring this performance.
For more info, see http://www.spiffs.org/2017-fair.html

The SPC Jazz Profs
April 11 at 7 PM
West St. Petersburg Community Library
FREE!
 

Diego Figueiredo & O Som Do Jazz
Sunday, April 2 at 3 PM & 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater

 

Called by jazz guitar master George Benson, “One of the greatest guitarists I’ve seen in my whole life,” the Brazilian guitar wizard Diego Figueiredo is a force to be recognized. Acclaimed by the critics as the newest discovery in the guitar world, Figueiredo has made a massive impression in the contemporary jazz world. He received awards twice at the Montreux Jazz Festival, performing amazing concerts uniting technique and emotion in a fusion of Brazilian music and jazz.

Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of experienced musicians performing Brazilian jazz, Bossa Nova, samba, samba, Balanço and MPB. O Som Do Jazz (the sound of jazz in Portuguese) recaptures the grace, energy and spirit of 1960s Brazilian music. Heralded as the best Brazilian band in Florida, the music of O Som Do Jazz has been featured in HBO's series "Looking", Fox "Grandfathered", BBC One's "The Replacement" and "Riverdale" on WC, as well as in Chinese and Turkish bossa nova compilations.


Oba Brasil! with O Som Do Jazz
Sunday, November 27 at 3 PM
CL Space in Ybor City
 

Brazilian Bossa Nova & samba-jazz from O Som Do Jazz is featured at the CL Space in Ybor City on Sunday, November 27 at 3 PM. The sextet is led by Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson with a team of jazz musicians skilled in Brazilian styles.

The group has recently performed at festivals in Winter Garden, Naples, Sarasota & Port Charlotte. Enjoy an afternoon of real Brazilian music at the beautiful CL Space in Ybor City! Admission is $10 only available at the door. There is no reserved seating. The CL Space is located at 1191 N. 13th Street, Ybor City, FL 33605.  See www.osomdojazz.com for more info.


Diego Figueiredo & O Som Do Jazz
Tuesday, September 27 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater
Presented by EMIT
 

"Diego Figueiredo is one of the greatest guitarists I’ve seen in my whole life. The world needs to listen to his music". (George Benson)

"I have seen and played with many wonderful guitar players like Joe Pass or Baden Powell, but no one is like Diego. His ability and swing are unique". (Flora Purim)

Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo is an extraordinary fast-rising star in the jazz world and his superb technique, timing and imagination have made him one of the hottest international names on the scene today. He is only 35, and he has release 23 CDs, 3 DVDs, and he has playing in more than 60 countries around the world. He is winner of several important competitions like Montreal Jazz Competition, VISA Prize and others. A brilliant musician, Diego keeps the traditional essence of Brazilian music and at the same time is extremely virtuosic, modern and innovative. His concerts unite technique and emotion in a fusion of Brazilian music and jazz.

6-piece group O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of exceptional musicians skilled in Brazilian styles and jazz. In the concert, Diego Figueiredo will first perform solo and then join O Som Do Jazz for a very special evening of Brazilian Bossa Nova and samba-jazz at the Side Door!

GENERAL ADMISSION: $15 - http://www.mypalladium.org/box-office/

Helios & Jamie Perlow at the Side Door - September 13
Tuesday, September 13 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium Theater
 

Jamie Perlow joins the Helios Jazz Orchestra as guest singer in a special program of big band favorites. Jamie is an extraordinary area singer and songwriter with radio and television credits. Her expressive style, full voice and flawless intonation set her apart.

The Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, is an 18-piece jazz big band made up of the finest jazz musicians in the Tampa Bay area. Enjoy cabaret seating and hear big band jazz in an intimate setting.


Helios Returns to NOVA 535 with singer Lorri Hafer
Tuesday, July 26 at 7:30 PM
NOVA 535

 

By request, the 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra returns for a special concert of swinging big band music at the swanky NOVA 535! The big band, directed by David Manson, will feature guest vocalist Lorri Hafer.

Lorri is a favorite of the musicians in the Helios Jazz Orchestra because of her beautiful tone, flawless enunciation, projection of voice and musical expression. She toured as vocalist with The Glenn Miller Orchestra throughout the US and Japan and was also featured vocalist with Les Brown’s Band of Renown, and special guest vocalist with Buddy Morrow and The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.

NOVA 535 is the #1 rated event space and wedding venue in St. Petersburg for many good reasons. With its beautiful lighting, brick walls and rustic beams, high ceilings, attentive staff, cabaret seating, large wooden dance floor, full bar, free convenient parking and more… there could not be a more perfect venue for an evening of big band music and dancing!

NOVA 535 is located at 535 Dr. MLK Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701!

General admission $12.84 advance tickets and $15 at the door.
advance VIP seating $26.75. For more info, see http://nova535.com/event/18-piece-helios-jazz-band-returns/

Jovino Santos Neto & O Som Do Jazz
Sunday, May 22 at 3 PM
Music Center at St. Petersburg College
 

Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto, a master pianist and composer, is among the top Brazilian musicians performing today. Jovino and Brazilian jazz sextet O Som Do Jazz, join forces for a concert of original works by Jovino fusing jazz and northeastern Brazilian styles, as well as classic Brazilian Bossa Nova & MPB.

Rio de Janeiro-born and Seattle-based pianist, composer and flutist Jovino Santos Neto was a member of Hermeto Pascoal's band from 1977 to 1992, He has toured with Sergio Mendes, Airto Moreira and Flora Purim's group, Fourth World, as well as leading his own Seattle-based Quinteto.

O Som Do Jazz features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson backed by Austin Vickrey (saxophones), David Manson (trombone), Bill Pullicere (bass) and Mark Feinman (drums).

If you love Brazilian music, you will want to attend this very special concert!

Admission is $15, available only at the door. The SPC Music Center is located at 6605 Fifth Ave. North in St. Petersburg. For more information about Jovino, see http://www.jovisan.net/ . For info about O Som Do Jazz, see www.osomdojazz.com .

Brazilian Music Q & A with Jovino Santos Neto
Saturday, May 21 at 4 PM
Music Center at St. Petersburg College
 
Jovino will discuss, answer questions and play piano.  The event is free and part of the Crossover Festival.

 

EMIT is a proud sponsor of the Crossover Festival - Crossover is a one-day festival on Saturday, May 21 that celebrates students as makers of music from popular music genres such as rock, alternative, blues, pop, R&B, hip hop, funk, folk, indie rock, electronic dance music, country, rap, punk, soul, metal, Southern rock, Latin, new age, reggae, etc. The 2016 inaugural event will be held on the Gibbs Campus of St. Petersburg College.  For more information, see http://floridamusiceducation.org/programs/crossover-festival/


Synia Carroll & The Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, May 3 at 7:30 PM
Side Door at the Palladium
 

Vocalist Synia Carroll is featured in concert with the 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson. Carroll’s approach to jazz is reminiscent of Nancy Wilson with an energy and clarity to her voice that works very well with a big band. The program (presented by EMIT) features jazz favorites including “This Can’t Be Love,” “Misty,” “Sway” and others.

past concert dates:

MIFU at Gasp!
Friday, April 1 from 6 - 9 PM
Tampa Museum

 

MIFU (Mobile Itinerant Funk Unit) performs on Gasp!, the Gasparilla Fringe Festival on Friday, April 1 at the Tampa Museum.  The roaming street band grooves and improvises to funk and jazz.  For more information, see http://cltampa.com/tampa/Gasp2016/Page#.Vvati3BpfqY .









Chuck Wansley & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, December 15
Music Center at the Palladium Side Door

 

The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, backs Chuck Wansley in a special concert of swinging big band music at the SPC Music Center!

Native New Yorker Chuck Wansley began his professional singing and performing career at age 18 on an extended world tour with Up With People. Upon returning to the states he performed with a variety of musicians in the Northeast, including several years in the Boston area as drummer and singer with the popular club band Match.

In the early 80s he moved back to New York to pursue a solo career as a singer, signing first with Prism Records and then Motown, as a founding member of the urban techno band WARP-9, performing live and producing two albums. He also performed and recorded an album with innovative international performance artist Tomek Lamprecht.

In 1984 Chuck moved to Los Angeles and matured into a dynamic performer, easily conveying a range of musical styles from Frank Sinatra and Harry Connick, to Fatboy Slim and Maroon 5.  In 2007 Chuck expanded his business, creating a second band on the East Coast to enable him to perform in as many locales as his schedule allows. Chuck and his bands have performed from Connecticut to Napa, Los Angeles to Paris, along with numerous solo appearances in Japan.

Lorri Hafer & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, September 8 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Theater Side Door

 

The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, backs Lorri Hafer in a special concert of swinging big band music at the Side Door!

Lorri is a favorite of the musicians in the Helios Jazz Orchestra because of her beautiful tone, flawless enunciation, projection of voice and musical expression.

Lorri Hafer is the daughter of composer /arranger /Academy Award nominee Al Ham and his wife, Mary Mayo. They met while they were both performing with the post war Glenn Miller Orchestra under the direction of Tex Beneke.
She has shared the stage with Margaret Whiting, Frankie Laine, The Four Lads, Deana Martin, Maria Muldaur, Eric Darling of The Rooftop Singers, Jim Brady of The Sandpipers, and Denny Doherty and Michele Phillips of The Mamas and The Papas and Trini Lopez. Lorri also appeared as the opening act for comedian Bob Newhart. Most recently, Lorri made her debut at NYC’s famed Metropolitan Room. Her CD, "The Very Thought of You" has received both national and international airplay in the US, the UK, Italy, the Caribbean, and New Zealand.

Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, July 21 at 7:30 PM
Music Center at St. Petersburg College
 

Our next Helios Jazz Orchestra concert will be a jazz education scholarship fundraiser scheduled Tuesday, July 21 at the SPC Music Center! Donations will cover tuition fees for students enrolled in SPC jazz ensembles. The 18-piece big band, (directed by David Manson), will perform works by Thad Jones, Sonny Rollins, Ray Bryant, Charles Mingus and more. Duke Ellington alumni John Lamb is featured with the big band.

Lorri Hafer & the Helios Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, May 19 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Theater Side Door

 

The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, backs Lorri Hafer in a special concert of swinging big band music at the Side Door!

Lorri is a favorite of the musicians in the Helios Jazz Orchestra because of her beautiful tone, flawless enunciation, projection of voice and musical expression.





Amy Morgan & Helios Jazz Orchestra
March 24 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Theater Side Door

 

The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra features singer Amy Morgan in a show of Great American Songbook jazz favorites Tuesday, March 24. Amy is a song stylist with a passion for swing and big band music. She will sing Black Coffee, Makin' Whoopee!, This Can't Be Love and others.
The Helios Jazz Orchestra has been featured on the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, St. Petersburg Jazz Festival and Ybor Jazz Festival. It is comprised of top area jazz musicians who love the sound of a roaring jazz big band!  The Side Door is a cabaret-style venue with ber and wine available.  It's an intimate space, so you will be close to the band.

Admission is $15 at the Palladium Theater Side Door. Advance tickets are available and recommended. The show begins at 7:30 PM.  The Palladium Theater Side Door is located at 253 5th Ave N, St Petersburg, FL 33701.  See www.mypalladium.org/ for tickets.


Eliana Blanchard & Bryan Hughes & Helios Jazz Orchestra!
January 20 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Side Door

 

The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, features vocalists Eliana Blanchard and Bryan Hughes in a special show of jazz classics. 

Eliana is a recent graduate of the MIRA (Music Industry/Recording Arts) program at St. Petersburg College and has a powerful voice that is perfect for torch songs. A Helios favorite, Bryan recently returned from performances in Europe and brings his suave Rat Pack style to the stage of the Side Door.  It's a great evening of big band jazz in the intimate cabaret setting of the Side Door!

This concert benefits the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival presented by EMIT.  For advance tickets see: www.mypalladium.org


Nik Sharp & Helios Jazz Orchestra!
November 18 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Side Door
 

Helios Jazz Orchestra and Nik Sharp revisit the classic music of the 1966 live album, Sinatra at the Sands with favorites including “Come Fly With Me,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “Fly Me To The Moon,” “Nice & Nice” and many more.

From 2001 to 2011 Nik Sharp was the lead singer and songwriter for the popular, alternative rock band, Suburban Tragedy. Nik has had his music placed in MTV’s Real World and he was recently signed for a multi-album with Nashville producer Richard Williams.

This concert benefits the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival presented by EMIT.  For advance tickets see: www.mypalladium.org

O Som Do Jazz in Gulfport!

Catherine Hickman Theater in Gulfport
 

O Som Do Jazz (the sound of jazz in Portuguese) recaptures the grace, energy and spirit of 1960s Brazilian music! This sextet features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson and a crew of experienced musicians performing Brazilian jazz, Bossa Nova, samba-jazz, Balanço and MPB.

The great Brazilian songbook of Tom Jobim, Milton Nascimento, Edu Lobo, Baden Powell and more are featured in this very special concert. Andrea sings these favorites in Portuguese and English supported by great area jazz musicians (David Cubillos, Austin Vickrey, Alejandro Arenas, Mark Feinman, David Manson) who love and respect Brazilian music!

Admission is $15 at the door or in advance at the Gulfport Casino.

Helios & Whitney James at the Side Door!
Tuesday, September 30 at 7:30 PM
Palladium Theater Side Door
 

 

Singer Whitney James joins the Helios Jazz Orchestra in a special jazz big band concert. James’ 2010 debut CD “The Nature of Love” spent 16 weeks on the National Jazz Charts and received critical acclaim from U.S. and International Jazz Press.  In 2012, Whitney was chosen as one of the top twelve Rising Stars in the world of jazz and was featured on Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz Rising Stars on NPR. The 18-piece Helios Jazz Orchestra, directed by David Manson, has been featured at the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Ybor Jazz Festival and St. Petersburg Jazz Festival. This concert benefits the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival presented by EMIT.  For advance tickets see: www.mypalladium.org