NAC’s diverse and electric First Friday Jazz Series opens with New Haven jazz pianist Noah Baerman, whose concerts have been described as a “powerful and musical journey” whether he’s covering the classics or playing his own original work. Having performed with some of the best jazz musicians in the country, Noah has 4 solo CDs under his belt and numerous recordings with other artists and ensembles. This multitalented performer delivers an unforgettable show full of emotion and energy. SPONSORED BY DIME BANK

Greg Abate is a jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer and thrills audiences as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 150 days a year touring the globe. David Franklin of Jazz Times said, “Multi-saxophonist Greg Abate is a prime example of the ‘rear back and blow’ school of contemporary bop-based players. The tunes he writes or chooses are based on the kinds of changes that harmony-oriented jazzmen have favored since the beginning and he swings through them with and eager and easy virtuosity.”

Norwich's best-kept musical secret, John "Count" Steadwell was a key figure in the New Haven jazz scene from the 1950's through the 1970's, when New Haven was a regular stop for nationally known touring jazz stars.

 "Count S. is jazz's Gold Standard, whose time, touch and even his alto saxophone playing exhibited a dedication to the music that is impossible to distinguish from Religion at its finest." – Willie Ruff, French horn player and bassist with the Mitchell-Ruff duo, award-winning author, Yale University faculty member 

Eight To The Bar returns to the Norwich Arts Council for their annual "alternative New Year's Eve" celebration. Their performance sells out every year and there is always a waiting list for the following year!

 Drawing its musical influences from American roots music - swing, boogie woogie, rhythm & blues, soul and Motown, Eight to the Bar is known for its outstanding instrumentalists and sophisticated musical and vocal arrangements, highlighted by female vocals.

Photographer: Tom Hopkins, Madison, CT - Hairstylist for Charmagne
and Cynthia: Georgina's Hair Studio, Orange, CT.

Connecticut-based guitarist / singer Tony Lee has performed locally and nationally for years as a side man. He now fronts his own unit, The Tony Lee Band, which has been nominated for Best Blues/Rock Act in the Hartford Advocate readers’ poll.

In recent years, Lee concentrated on Blues and R&B, and recent involvements include: a stint at the Mont Tremblant Blues Festival in Quebec, opening for BB King at Foxwoods Resort Casino and featured artist billing at the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz.

The Steve Marien Ensemble, featuring some of the best freelance artists in the state, presents an invigorating mix of jazz styles from straight ahead to bebop, from fusion to funk, and this year, Lisa Marien, an accomplished and experienced jazz singer, will be joining them!

Saxophonist Steve Marien has been bringing his versatile artistry to Connecticut and the region for over 25 years.

A consummate artist on the soprano, alto and tenor saxophones, as well as clarinet, Steve is highly sought after as a freelance artist.

Don't miss this veteran jazz performer and his phenomenal ensemble the Donald L. Oat theatre!

EXUBERANT AFRO-LATIN SONGS & RHYTHMS
The heart and soul of Sol y Canto's music is its rich vocal harmonies, sumptuous Spanish guitar and a combination of beautiful ballads and churning Latin rhythms, each performed with unparalleled depth and enthusiasm. Add wind, percussion and bass, and you have Sol y Canto's unique sound. Sol y Canto (sun and song) has brought audiences to their feet from the Kennedy Center and White House to the California World Music Festival and Puerto Rico’s Conservatorio de Música and Museo de Arte.

Sol y Canto features Rosi Amador's crystalline voice and Brian Amador's lush Spanish guitar accompanied by outstanding Latin musicians from Cuba, Uruguay, Mexico and Argentina.

Photo credit: Susan Wilson, Susan Wilson Photography

Passionate and powerful are two words listeners often use to describe the vocal elements of Traci Root. Traci brings a classic R&B sound, infused with modern soul, jazz & hip hop flavors – even overtones of folk rock. With old school influences such as Stevie Wonder, Al Green and Gladys Knight, as well as the newer stylings of Alicia Keys, Joss Stone and Lauryn Hill she has a deep respect for raw talent and soul and it shows rather covering such classics or performing original music that has a sound and style all her own. First time listeners are often amazed at the soulful song that comes from deep within.
 

Vance started out as a jazz singer, then switched to folk music, performing on the open mike circuit in Boston. While considered by many to be an integral part of the New England folk scene, Gilbert's approach stands apart in significant ways. His performances often feature extended guitar and vocal techniques, and Gilbert's compositions frequently employ sophisticated melodies and harmonies that belie his jazz roots.

The songs' content often defies the folk genre as well: several of Gilbert's songs deal with racial issues and his live show banter often touches on his being a black man in a field of music dominated by both white performers and audiences.

He has become a favorite at the Donald L. Oat Theater, his show is a "must see" and is sure to sell out quickly- get your tickets early!