Alex Greene & the Rolling Head Orchestra
2023-05-27 14:30 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Alex Greene & the Rolling Head Orchestra in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, May 27, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Session keyboardist and composer Alex Greene (Reigning Sound, Big Ass Truck, the Kropotkins, Deepstaria Enigmatica) has over three decades of experience in Memphis and New York, and has performed and recorded albums and soundtracks with the Rolling Head Orchestra since 2009. Whether he’s in singer/songwriter mode or leading a jazz band, his compositions combine strong melodic lines with unexpected, shape-shifting harmonies. Combining themes worthy of the Golden Age of Hollywood with more modernist sonic textures, and echoing artists as diverse as Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington, and Sun Ra, the classic jazz sextet of the Rolling Head Orchestra is now augmented by the eerie wail of the Theremin.
In 2010, the Rolling Head Orchestra scored the documentary Citizens Not Subjects: Reawakening Democracy in Memphis, leading to the album Depression Jubilee. The group has gone on to perform original scores for silent films since 2019, when Greene was a Resident Composer at Crosstown Arts, including soundtracks for A Trip to the Moon; Aelita, Queen of Mars; Buster Keaton’s The Cameraman; Flesh and the Devil with Greta Garbo, and, as commissioned by the Indie Memphis Film Festival in 2022, Häxan.
In this one of a kind show at The Green Room, Greene and the Rolling Head Orchestra will focus on these cinematic set pieces as stand-alone works. Free to stretch out over Greene’s compositions, the band, featuring some of Memphis’ finest players, will bring the music to life as never before, blending jazz rhythms and horns with the haunting tones of the Theremin.

Suture
2023-06-01 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Suture at Crosstown Theater.
Scott McGehee & David Siegel / 1993 / 96 minutes / Not Rated
Tickets: $5 at the door
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!) at Crosstown Theater
Inspired by the paranoid visions of John Frankenheimer’s Seconds, the desert noir of Detour, and the widescreen beauty of Hiroshi Teshigahara’s Woman of the Dunes, Suture is one of the most outstanding neo-noirs of the 1990s. The wealthy and self-assured Vincent (Michael Harris) meets his blue-collar half-brother Clay (Dennis Haysbert) at their father’s funeral, and is struck by their similarity. He decides to murder Clay and take his identity — only Clay survives the assassination attempt with no memory and is mistaken for Vincent. The fact that Harris is white and Haysbert is Black adds even more layers to a complex film that probes the very nature of identity. Executive produced by Steven Soderbergh and winner of Sundance’s Best Cinematography award, Suture has been newly restored in 4K from the original camera negative.
The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.

Tonya Dyson & The Ainitmanes
2023-06-01 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Tonya Dyson & The Ainitmanes in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, June 1, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Tonya Dyson wears so many hats: non-profit arts executive, music educator, serial entrepreneur, community leader, and festival organizer. You name it. She’s also a beloved artist who has not only built a devoted following in a creative landscape of her own design but has helped develop and nurture that same environment for countless other Memphis artists. She’s the genuine article in Memphis’ new soul underground.

The Evergreen Sessions Vol. II
2023-06-02 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents The Evergreen Sessions Vol. II in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, June 2, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Hosted by Brandon Blvd, The Evergreen Sessions Vol. II features Idi X Teco with Saturday Sunset, Camm, Kiva Richardson, Austyn Michael, and D’vonna Taylor.
The Evergreen Sessions is a platform curated and presented by Memphis-based hip-hop artist Brandon Blvd. The series has a goal of highlighting and celebrating some of the most talented musical artists in the city of Memphis.
The first installment of the session featured acts such as Mai Ty, Idaly Maceano, Pyu, Cadillac Jack, with Brandon Blvd as the closing act. In this second installment of The Evergreen Sessions, Brandon aims to elevate the experience by presenting another lineup of amazing Memphis-based acts. The Evergreen Sessions Vol. II features acts such as Kiva Richardson, Austyn Michael, Camm, and D’vonna Taylor. The dynamic duo Idi X Teco, formerly known as Hippy Soul will be headlining this event alongside Memphis-based band “Saturday Sunset!”
As a former Crosstown Arts resident artist, Brandon was able to actively collaborate with artists from different walks, backgrounds, and practices. This inspired him to pursue the creation of similar art spaces in collaboration with Crosstown Arts in order to continue the sharing of ideas, vibes, and perspectives through music. As an artist and Memphis native, Brandon hopes that The Evergreen Sessions will allow such environments to exist for the foreseeable future.

(SOLD OUT) Strictly Jazz: The Music of Nina Simone
2023-06-03 14:30 - 16:30 | Crosstown Arts The Green Room
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, June 3, 2023
Doors at 7pm | Show at 7:30pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
This event is sold out.
The Crosstown Strictly Jazz Series, presented by Crosstown Arts in collaboration with Strictly Jazz Entertainment, is designed to salute classic jazz music as contemporary musicians perform the work of the legends.
D’Monet – Vocalist
Johnny Tate – Piano
Carl Caspersen – Bass
Jonathan Bass – Guitar
Anthony Knox – Drums
About D’Monet:
D’Monet is a singer/songwriter, arranger and vocal coach from Memphis, TN. Originally classically trained to study opera, the skills she acquired from her Alma Mater and HBCU LeMoyne Owen College allowed her to branch out across several genres as a feature on numerous stages, musical sets, and news stations.
Among those include performing as a featured guest of Black Enterprise Magazine’s Women of Summit, performing “Dealing” as a duet with Grammy-nominated Soul Crooner Eric Roberson, and performing background for various mainstream RnB and gospel artists.
She soaks inspiration from artists such as Anita Baker, Oleta Adams, Rachelle Ferrell, Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder, Lalah Hathaway, and Mint Condition, just to name a few.
The music D’Monet writes, she calls “Alkaline Music” – music that heals. Her intention is to connect with her audience, giving them the space to heal, laugh, enjoy themselves and be free in that moment. She writes music based on real life experiences, with a little mix of creativity in her songs.
About Strictly Jazz:
Strictly Jazz Entertainment is committed to cultivating a growing community in the knowledge and appreciation of jazz. Strictly Jazz Entertainment facilitates dialogue and collaboration between the devoted supporters of jazz and the brand new constituents – those new to the genre – for the furthering of the jazz community. Strictly Jazz provides a bridge between leading artists and a community that typically does not embrace jazz by promoting concerts in various venues to generate an atmosphere that is viable for the absorption of pure jazz.
Refund policy:
Tickets may be refunded up to 72 hours in advance.
Tickets for shows that are cancelled will be refunded.
In the case of a postponed show, tickets will be refunded upon request, otherwise tickets will automatically be transferred to the new date.

Shoot & Splice: On Writing with Craig Brewer & Hennah Sekander
2023-06-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Indie Memphis and Crosstown Arts present Shoot & Splice: On Writing with Craig Brewer & Hannah Sekander in Crosstown Theater.
Crosstown Theater
Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Doors open at 6:30 pm | Event begins at 7 pm
Tickets: Free
Indie Memphis & Crosstown Arts are excited to present a conversation on film & TV writing between filmmaker Craig Brewer and writer Hennah Sekander. This wide ranging conversation will include topics such as the WGA strike, the current creative & business culture of the industry, ins and outs of the writers room, and much more. Prepare for a fun, engaging evening with two of the top writers in the current film & TV industry!
Shoot & Splice is a FREE filmmaker forum presented by Crosstown Arts and Indie Memphis, featuring a wide variety of technical, educational, and unique topics of interest to the Memphis filmmaking community.

“LUZ”: Amaro Dubois & David Cordoba
2023-06-07 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents “LUZ”: Amaro Dubois & David Cordoba in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $10 | $5 student tickets available
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Violist Amaro Dubois and pianist David Cordoba perform music from Dubois’ new album Luz.
The mission of Luz is to highlight the beauty of Latin American music for viola and piano. “The extension of the viola repertoire and popularization of the Latin repertoire in the classical industry is indeed one of my goals with this album,” Dubois says. “Luz means light, and light is an essential part of our lives. However, this meaningful album comes to share passion, love, and peace. After all, light is what we are missing the most in this world of today.”
We need more Luz; we need more light.
For the performance at Crosstown Arts, Dubois will play compositions from his latest album, Luz, recorded for PARMA Recording & Navona Record in Boston. Among the composers will be two world premieres for viola and piano by José Elizondo and Dimitri Cervo.

Phantom of the Paradise
2023-06-08 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Phantom of the Paradise at Crosstown Theater.
Brian De Palma / 1974 / 91 minutes / Rated PG
Tickets: $5 at the door
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!) at Crosstown Theater
Directed by Brian De Palma, Phantom of the Paradise satirizes both horror films and rock groups in the story of a composer of a rock cantata on the theme of Faust, who sells his soul for rock ’n’ roll. Oscar-winner Paul Williams stars and composed the superb rock musical score.
The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.

*SOLD OUT* Rachel Maxann with Cyrena Wages and Joe Restivo
2023-06-08 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
THIS SHOW IS NOW SOLD OUT.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, June 8, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
As a singer/songwriter, Rachel Maxann describes her style as vintage indie-rock and post-modern folklore. Originally from Ohio, Rachel has been deeply influenced by the music culture of every area where she has lived — North Carolina; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Memphis.
“In the same show, you’ll hear country influences, blues influences, rock and pop influences, and maybe even some musical theater,” she says. By the time she arrived in Memphis in 2020, Rachel was ready for the sounds she had cultivated to weave a tapestry of her own genre — a uniquely Memphis sound from an original voice. Black Fae is Rachel’s first album produced, mixed, and mastered in her new home here in Tennessee.
Band: Mike Hewlett, Daniel Wasmund, Alice Hasen, Tamar Love, and Mitchell Jones
Special Guests: Marcella Simien, Louise Page, Bailey Bigger, and Doug

Crafts & Drafts
2023-06-10 05:00 - 11:00 | Crosstown Concourse, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104
South Plaza and Central Atrium
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Time: 10 am-4 pm
Tickets: Free and open to the public
Local artists and makers showcase their wares during a fun afternoon of outdoor holiday shopping. Guests will browse a curated selection of handmade goods, as well as a great selection of beers and food available for purchase to stoke shopping spirits.

Proud As Folk featuring The Black Opry Revue
2023-06-10 14:30 - 16:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts and Folk All Y’all present Proud As Folk featuring The Black Opry Revue in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $25
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Black Opry amplifies Black artists and builds community for Black fans of country, blues, folk, and Americana music. In honor of Pride month, this celebration of queer Black voices in roots music will feature Carmen Dianne, Josey, and Julia Cannon.
CARMEN DIANNE is a Nashville born and raised singer-songwriter, vocalist, and bassist. Carmen finds that the most interesting people don’t really fit into one box, so their music shouldn’t either. By blending genres like R&B with southern rock and country, Carmen hopes to create a sound as natural and familiar as it is ear-catching and original. With her soulful, angelic voice and deft songwriting skill, Carmen Dianne illustrates stories of regret, hope, willpower and sheer bliss with a striking sincerity that shows that this singer won’t be going anywhere soon.
JOSEY was crowned the winner of the talent competition “The Fame Chicago” before graduating from Columbia College Chicago with a Bachelor of Music and moving to Nashville to pursue her songwriting career. Her talents have led her to perform at numerous venues such as The Chicago Theatre, The Metro, Auditorium Theatre, Exit/IN and with gifted musicians such as Diane Warren, Corey Henry and Shawn Mullins. With her eclectic sound, soaring vocals and compelling lyrics, Josey is creating her own path within music.
JULIA CANNON is a Nashville-based songwriter, recording artist and music producer who is hard to forget. Recently lauded for her “beautiful balladry” by Rolling Stone (2022), Julia’s soothing, honeyed voice and quirky personality offer a refreshing, vibrant contrast to the bittersweet honesty of her lyrics and uncertain times for those listening. Known for her outstanding musicality, disarming persona, beauty, style, and offbeat humor, Julia Cannon is a bright star to watch.
About Folk All Y’all: Intimate, attentive performances by exceptional singer-songwriters, proudly presented in Memphis, Folk All Y’all is a public, nonprofit listening room series supported by our pledges from our community.

No Tears Project: Community Concerts
2023-06-11 09:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Two performances – Shows begin at 2 pm and 6:30 pm
Free and open to the public
Seating is limited | Reservations required

Reserve seats for 2 pm performance
Reserve seats for 6:30 pm performance

A 90-minute concert from the No Tears Project ensemble led by Christopher Parker (piano) and Kelley Hurt (voice). The seven-piece ensemble also includes renowned drummer Brian Blade, bassist Rodney Jordan, tenor saxophonist Robert “Bobby LaVell” Garner, trumpeter Marc Franklin, and alto saxophonist Chad Fowler. The band will perform the world premiere of new works written by and in collaboration with Memphis artists, including saxophonist Robert “Bobby LaVell” Garner. A new arrangement of Memphis pianist Donald Brown’s song “Poem for Martin,” written by Marc Franklin, as well as selections previously written by Oliver Lake, Parker, and Hurt, in honor of the Little Rock Nine will also be performed. Poet and spoken word artist Treasure Shields Redmond, and dancer Ashley Tate will also join the ensemble as special guests for both concerts.

Modern Masters Jazz Series: Paul Carr
2023-06-13 14:30 - 17:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Modern Masters: Paul Carr with the Ted Ludwig Trio in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Doors at 7 pm | Show at 7:30 pm
$25 | $20 in advance ($10 student tickets at the door)
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Paul Carr, a Houston native and 1985 Howard University graduate, has dedicated his professional career to performing and promoting jazz through education and community outreach. He carries on the Texas tenor tradition espoused by great heroes such as the late Houstonians Arnett Cobb and Don Wilkerson who served as his early idols and mentors. He grew up in inner-city Houston, Texas and was a member of the Kashmere High School Stage Band, whose director, the late Conrad Johnson, is the subject of a documentary, Thunder Soul, produced by actor Jamie Foxx. Though never having had private music lessons, Paul has received several outstanding musician awards at high school and college jazz festivals.
Paul has recorded 8 CD’s, which have been well received by critics and jazz fans alike. His new CD “The Real Jazz Whisperer” features Allyn Johnson, Michael Bowie, Lewis Nash and will be released September, 2020. His CD “DC-NYC Organ Sessions” reached #9 on the Jazz Week radio play charts. His CD released in 2013, “Standard Domain,” reached #3 on the Jazz Week radio play chart and stayed on the chart for 16 weeks. Paul has toured Russia, Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Central and South America and has shared the stage with many of the greatest names in jazz. Paul was a favorite of President Clinton during his term in office and Paul performed at many of the Clinton’s private events. He also did a special performance for the late King Hussein and Queen Noir of Jordan at their residence in Aqaba, Jordan.
Paul is passionately committed to the education of children and young adults, particularly as it relates to the preservation of jazz. In 2002, he founded the Jazz Academy of Music, which hosts summer camps and jazz ensembles for kids throughout the year. Paul also serves the Director of the Gettysburg College Jazz Ensemble. Paul has changed the lives of hundreds of his students by selflessly sharing his knowledge of music and life. Several of his students have been admitted and even received full scholarships to some of the top music schools and conservatories in the country. In fact, five of Paul students have been admitted to the prestigious Julliard School of Music in New York. Many of his former students are touring and performing all over the world, sharing the stage with some of the top names in jazz music today. Paul’s work was acknowledged in 2012 by ABC Channel 7 News when he was selected as a “Harris Hero” for his amazing work with music students across the area. In March 2014, Paul received the prestigious, Howard University, “Benny Golson Jazz Master Award”, for his outstanding work as a performer, presenter and educator. He also served as a panelist at the 2014 Congressional Black Caucus where he spoke on the importance of jazz education and advocated for a Bill that was circulating in Congress that to offer federal support toward the advancement and preservation of traditional Jazz. In March, 2015 Paul received the County Executive’s “Education Award” for Montgomery County Maryland. Finally, in 2019, Paul was selected as a “Jazz Hero” by the Jazz Journalist Association.
In 2010, Paul re-established the East Coast Jazz Festival as the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, and serves as its Executive and Artistic Director. The festival enjoys over 3,000 attendees that travel from states across the U.S. and beyond. Held every Presidents Day weekend in Rockville, MD, the festival incorporates a strong educational component, with a high school band competition and free master classes for students as well as an entertainment component with performances by NEA Jazz Masters, such as Benny Golson, Jimmy Heath, Ellis Marsalis, Roy Haynes and Branford Marsalis, just to name of few.
In 2015, Paul presented his teaching technique for improvisation, “The Theoryless Approach to Jazz Improvisation”, at the JEN Conference in San Diego, to a standing room only audience. The presentation was well received by the audience with many questions and request for a copy of the presentation. Paul also present the techniques at the 2015 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival to the high school band directors in attendance.
When you think of an ambassador for jazz music today, you have got to include Paul Carr in that grouping, as his work touches all fronts including jazz education, performance and presentation.

MicroCinema: Tribute to Barbara Hammer
2023-06-14 14:00 - 15:30 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts and Indie Memphis present MicroCinema: Tribute to Barbara Hammer.
Crosstown Theater
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Doors at 6:30 pm | Screenings begin at 7:00 pm
Tickets: Pay-What-You-Can
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
In honor of the incredible experimental lesbian filmmaker, Barbara Hammer, Indie Memphis and Crosstown Arts are excited to bring this Tribute to Barbara Hammer for this month’s MicroCinema. A prolific filmmaker, installation artist, and pioneer of feminist and queer cinema for over 50 years, Hammer’s work consistently and relentlessly explored the intimate experiences of lesbian relationships, the erasure and censorship of queer history, and the relationship between sex, age, and the body.
Nitrate Kisses (1992), her first feature-length work, is a foundational queer classic that takes the shape of an experimental documentary exploring queer history and its erasure in the archives and the movies — something she would continue to explore in later work. Her short, Audience (1982), provides us with an insight into her vibrant personality and poses questions about the relationship between the artist, the art, and the audience experience that we wonder about to this day.
We’re ecstatic to screen her work and celebrate her impact on experimental and queer cinema.
Many thanks to Electronic Arts Intermix for this program!
Content Advisory: This program does include depictions of explicit nudity.

Crosstown Counterpoint: Blueshift Ensemble + Evan Williams
2023-06-14 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Concourse, Central Atrium, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN
Crosstown Arts presents Crosstown Counterpoint: Blueshift Ensemble + Evan Williams in the Central Atrium at Crosstown Concourse.
Central Atrium
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Free
REGISTER HERE
Supported by an Arts Access grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission and ArtsMemphis, Crosstown Arts presents the premiere of the commissioned work by Evan Williams, “Crosstown Counterpoint” alongside Williams’ earlier works “Bodies Upon the Gears”, “Amber Waves”, and Terry Riley’s classic minimalist bop, “In C.”
As the groundbreaking neared for Crosstown Concourse in 2017, several Memphians young and old were interviewed to provide oral histories of the Sears Crosstown building and what the revitalization would do for the area. Taking inspiration from works such as Steve Reich’s Different Trains, Crosstown Counterpoint uses these oral histories to tell the multi-generational story of this space, and what it meant to the people of Memphis. Two antiphonal string quartets accompany the voices, using the open space of the Central Atrium of Crosstown Concourse to bring this history to life.
Drawing from inspirations as diverse as Medieval chant to contemporary pop, the music of composer and conductor Evan Williams (b. 1988) explores the thin lines between beauty and disquieting, joy and sorrow, and simple and complex, while often tackling important social and political issues. Williams’ catalogue contains a broad range of work, from vocal and operatic offerings to instrumental works, along with electronic music.
Blueshift Ensemble is a Memphis-based contemporary chamber music ensemble dedicated to bringing artists and audiences together through artistic collaboration. By programming both new and existing classical repertoire alongside multi-genre collaborations, Blueshift aims to connect a wider audience to today’s classical music. The ensemble draws upon Memphis’s uniquely diverse musical heritage by combining classical music with popular music genres such as rock, blues, and soul and featuring local musicians, visual artists, and composers.

Crosstown Arts Residency Application Workshop
2023-06-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Classroom Glass Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Glassroom Classroom
Thursday, June 15, 2023
6-8 pm
Tickets: Free
These in-person workshops with Residency staff will highlight the Crosstown Arts application and will give tips for any residency application. ⁠
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The dates are:⁠
• Thursday, June 15: 6 to 8 pm⁠ (video and videographers)
• Thursday, June 22: 6 to 8 pm ⁠
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Glassroom Classroom at Crosstown Arts (next to Farmburger)⁠

Halloween lll: Season of the Witch (1982)
2023-06-15 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Halloween III: Season of the Witch with a live score by Robert Traxler, Natalie Hoffmann, and Revenge Body in collaboration with Memphis Concréte Festival at Crosstown Theater.
Tommy Lee Wallace / 1982 / 98 minutes / Rated R
Tickets: $10 at the door
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!) at Crosstown Theater
Hospital emergency room Dr. Daniel “Dan” Challis (Tom Atkins) and Ellie Grimbridge (Stacey Nelkin), the daughter of a murder victim, uncover a terrible plot by small-town mask maker Conal Cochran (Dan O’Herlihy), a madman who’s planning a Halloween mass murder utilizing an ancient Celtic ritual. The ritual involves a boulder stolen from Stonehenge, the use of Silver Shamrock masks, and a triggering device contained in a television commercial — all designed to kill millions of children.
Performance by Robert Traxler, Natalie Hoffmann, and Revenge Body.
The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.

Willie Farmer / Ryan Lee Crosby & Grant Smith / Shaun Marsh & Lynn Greer
2023-06-15 14:30 - 16:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Thursday, June 15, 2023
Doors at 7pm | Show at 7:30
Tickets: $15 advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Join Willie Farmer, Ryan Lee Crosby & Grant Smith, and Shaun Marsh & Lynn Greer for a special performance featuring the blues across time and space – music that crosses generations, cultures, and continents.
WILLIE FARMER is living proof that Mississippi continues to produce deep blues. The 65-year-old guitarist is neither a soul modernist nor revivalist, but simply a small town auto mechanic who’s never shaken his love for old school legends like Muddy, Wolf and Lightnin’.
A lifelong resident of tiny Duck Hill, located in the hills east of the Delta, Farmer grew up on the family farm. He first took up the acoustic guitar in his early teens, and through picking cotton soon saved up enough money to buy an electric instrument.
He played for audiences at home and at school events, and learned about blues and R&B mostly through listening to a powerful station out of Nashville. In his early ‘20s Farmer joined a loose knit band that played at juke joints across the area—in Duck Hill, Grenada, Kilmichael, and down in the Delta in Greenwood and Charleston. He eventually tired, though, of the rough-and-tumble clubs where “people liked to fight like crazy.”
Farmer eventually decided he wanted to get back into blues actively. In 2003 he helped found the annual Grassroots Blues Festival, staged in a meadow outside Duck Hill. Through the event, he befriended downhome blues players from across the state including Willie King and Leo Welch.
“The Man From the Hill” marks the first time that he’s spent serious time in the studio. Recorded over multiple sessions at producer Bruce Watson’s Memphis based Delta-Sonic Sound, Farmer enjoyed working in a North Mississippi Hill Country vein with Jimbo Mathus and session drummer George Sluppick. He even dipped back into gospel, singing harmony together with Memphis’ Barnes Brothers.
For the past thirty years Farmer has run his own auto repair shop, and hopes that the release of this record and associated touring will allow him to retire. “I’m trying to get out of that shop, I’m tired of messing with those cars. It’s been a long time.”
RYAN LEE CROSBY
The fingerstyle guitar maven, songwriter and powerfully emotional performer blends echoes of traditional music from Mississippi, Mali, and India into compelling songs that speak from—and to—the heart. His music captures the timeless power of music from the Mississippi Delta, refracted by influences of Hindustani slide guitar and Crosby’s own unique approach to the style. His songs resonate with a sound and spirit forged from his life as a traveling musician and his studies with masters of the Delta and Indian traditions.
“Of all the world’s musical traditions, the one that speaks to me most directly is the Bentonia style of Delta blues,” Crosby relates. “Something I love about the blues is its timeless ability to express the entire range of the human experience: its brightest joys, deepest sorrows and everything in between. By listening to the blues, we can learn how to have compassion for ourselves and others. Its lessons are endless.”
“With a riveting singing style and the compositional chops to pull off such searing sagas “Institution Blues” and “Down So Long” plus add new lyrics to the 19th century “Was It The Devil,” Ryan Lee is the real deal. Recorded in Memphis by Bruce Watson of Fat Possum—the label famous for RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough—it sounds unique, proudly independent and like a relic from another time.” Mike Greenblatt – GOLDMINE Magazine
SHAUN MARSH with LYNN GREER
From an early age growing up in the south of England, Shaun Marsh learned the power and potential of music through his mother, a performing artist and soul singer in the sixties and seventies. Being introduced to early pop, rock & roll, R&B and soul had a profound inspiration on him. It wasn’t until he reached his forties that Shaun began to look back at the origins and true roots of the music that he’d been listening to most of his life. Late one night while tuning in to John Peel on the radio, he heard “Hellhound On My Trail,” by Robert Johnson. The raw emotion of that recording compelled him to immerse himself in the early pre war Blues. He began to develop the techniques for playing finger picking style Country and Delta blues from the recordings of the early pioneering musicians who paved the way. It was these rich and lonesome strands of storytelling that brought him to Memphis, where he continues to study in the shadow of this powerful music that defines this city. His repertoire on solo acoustic guitar ranges from Robert Johnson to Charley Patton, from Skip James to Big Bill Broonzy. Following the threads of the blues from Memphis he also gets inspiration from such greats as Johnny Cash, Magic Sam & Otis Redding. His performances create an atmosphere of true emotion, telling the stories in song of this great music that changed the sound of popular music throughout the world.
Refund policy:
Tickets may be refunded up to 72 hours in advance.
Tickets for shows that are cancelled will be refunded.
In the case of a postponed show, tickets will be refunded upon request, otherwise tickets will automatically be transferred to the new date.

Darrius Strong: “The Artist”
2023-06-16 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Darrius Strong: “The Artist” in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, June 16, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Free

“The Artist” is a solo showcase performed by artistic director/choreographer Darrius Strong, in which he touches on layers and humanity of the person behind the artist. For Strong, movement is real and it acts as a language and sometimes as a therapeutic device. Overlapped with movement phrases, “The Artist” will also showcase other routine devices he uses throughout his day that tie to the continuous work he does to heal trauma in his body — aspects of the work that are very much read, true, and relatable to the human experience for many. We are not just one-sides, but we have many layers and dimensions to our identity.
This piece is a work in progress that Strong plans to explore and evolve throughout the year.
Darrius Strong is a McKnight Fellow in residency at Crosstown Arts. He is a Twin Cities-based dancer, choreographer, and instructor. His dance company, STRONGmovement, uses the universal language of dance, blending styles such as hip hop, ballet, modern, and West African to tell stories related to society and humanity. Strong is a graduate of the University of Minnesota (BFA 2015) and is currently faculty at St. Paul Conservatory Performing Arts High School and director of the hip hop program at Eleve Performing Arts Center, where he focuses on teaching dancers how to connect their identity to movement. His creative work has been chosen for the Walker Art Center’s Choreographers Evening, and Rhythmically Speaking.
This residency is supported by Artist Communities Alliance’s (ACA) McKnight Artist Residencies Consortium. This partnership between ACA and the McKnight Foundation supports selected residency program partners in developing fair and just policies, and provides McKnight Artist Fellows with residency opportunities at these partner programs. This consortium aims to support the development of residency environments where any artist can thrive.

2023 Memphis Concrète Festival
2023-06-17 10:30 - 2023-06-18 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Experimental music festival presented by Memphis Concrète in collaboration with Crosstown Arts.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, June 17, 2023 (3:30-10pm) & Sunday, June 18, 2023 (3:30-9pm)
Tickets: $20 single day pass or $35 2-day pass
(Thursday live score tickets sold at the door only – $10)
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2023 | Crosstown Theater

Crosstown Arts Film Series: Halloween III: Season of the Witch with live score accompaniment by Natalie Hoffmann, Revenge Body, and Robert Traxler
Doors at 6:30pm | Show starts at 7pm
TICKETS AT THE DOOR ONLY – $10 per entry (cash or card accepted)

SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 2023 | The Green Room at Crosstown Arts

Memphis Concrète Festival Day 1
Doors at 3pm | Sets from 3:30-10pm (detailed schedule below)

SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2023 | The Green Room at Crosstown Arts

Memphis Concrète Festival Day 2
Doors at 3pm | Sets from 3:30-9pm (detailed schedule below)

FESTIVAL LINEUP
Saturday, June 17th
Panic Signals 3:30 – 4:00pm
GODBODYJONES 4:15 – 4:45pm
Stupid Lepton 5:00 – 5:30pm
kavotaman 5:45 – 6:15pm
Slow Blink 6:30 – 7:00pm
CEL SHADE 7:15 – 7:45pm
Chelsea Bridge 8:00 – 8:30pm
XAMBUCA 8:45 – 9:15pm
General Labor 9:30 – 10:00pm
Sunday, June 18th
Leolin 3:30 – 4:00pm
Berkay Tok 4:15 – 4:45pm
W1ND0W 5:00 – 5:30pm
Dinosauria 5:45 – 6:15pm
Composer 4 6:30 – 7:00pm
Disaster Trees 7:15 – 7:45pm
Electroacoustic Performance (featuring the works of Milton Babbitt, Olly Wilson, Luzilei Aliel, and Indigo Knecht) 8:00 – 9:00pm

PRIZM Ensemble presents A Juneteenth Celebration
2023-06-17 14:00 - 15:30 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Theater
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Doors open at 6:30 pm | Event begins at 7 pm
Tickets: Free
RESERVE YOUR SEAT
Join PRIZM Ensemble for a free concert celebrating Juneteenth with wonderful choral, chamber, and orchestral music, featuring the Sensational Barnes Brothers.
Celebrating Black composers such as Valerie Coleman, Jessie Montgomery, and Ken Burton, PRIZM musicians and students will be joined by the Celebration Chorus to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

Crosstown Arts Resident Artist Talks
2023-06-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents the Resident Artist Talks in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
Doors open at 5:30 pm | Show begins at 6 pm
Tickets: Free and open to the public
Crosstown Arts Summer 2023 resident artists Thandi Cai, Neena Wang, Yidan Zeng, LiLi Nacht, and Josh Ice will present artist talks.
Free and open to the public.

Peter Janson
2023-06-21 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Peter Janson in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Growing up in Boston Massachusetts, Peter Janson listened to his father, an accomplished amateur guitarist, play solo guitar every day. Peter started playing by the age of seven, and starting doing pop gigs at age 15. For the last twenty-five years he has performed in venues large and small, much as a touring studio guitarist would – in a variety of styles; pop, rock, fusion, folk, Celtic, classical, and jazz. His sound is a melding of all these, and it presents as crossover jazz fusion.
His newest release, Getting To Here, is an album of deft arrangements and nuanced improvisations that come from his soul. The music is a triumph in the face of the pandemic lockdown when the isolation had such a negative impact on him he nearly quit playing. Now growing in international recognition, Peter signed a worldwide sub-publishing deal with SUPREME SONGS Limited (UK based) in October 2022.
Come to a concert. Listen to his music. Hear Peter Janson, a musician who couldn’t quit his love of music, performing solo jazz guitar songs inspired by guitar legends like Joe Pass, Earl Klugh, and Jim Hall as well as contemporary players like Pat Metheny, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Wolfgang Muthspiel.

Crosstown Arts Residency Application Workshop
2023-06-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Classroom Glass Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Glassroom Classroom
Thursday, June 22, 2023
6-8 pm
Tickets: Free
These in-person workshops with Residency staff will highlight the Crosstown Arts application and will give tips for any residency application. ⁠
⁠
The dates are:⁠
• Thursday, June 22: 6 to 8 pm ⁠
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Glassroom Classroom at Crosstown Arts (next to Farmburger)⁠

The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents: HAPPY TOGETHER
2023-06-22 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Happy Together at Crosstown Theater.
Wong Kar Wai / 1997 / 96 minutes / Rated R
Tickets: $5 at the door
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!) at Crosstown Theater
One of the most searing romances of the 1990s, Wong Kar Wai’s emotionally raw, lushly stylized portrait of a relationship in breakdown casts Hong Kong superstars Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung as a couple traveling through Argentina and locked in a turbulent cycle of infatuation and destructive jealousy as they break up, make up, and fall apart again and again.
The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.

The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents: PARIS IS BURNING
2023-06-29 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Paris Is Burning at Crosstown Theater.
Jennie Livingston / 1990 / 76 minutes / Not Rated
Tickets: $5 at the door
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!) at Crosstown Theater
Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is throwing shade? This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag ball scene. Made over seven years, Paris Is Burning offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion “houses,” from fierce contests for trophies, to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia and transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women — including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza — Paris Is Burning brings it, celebrating the joy of movement, the force of eloquence, and the draw of community
The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.

IN THE ROUND with Mark Edgar Stuart, Keith Sykes, and Jimmy Davis (SOLD OUT)
2023-07-07 14:30 - 16:30 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Friday, July 7, 2023
Doors open at 7pm | Show begins at 7:30pm
Tickets: SOLD OUT
Join Mark Edgar Stuart, Keith Sykes, and Jimmy Davis for an old-fashioned song swap in the Green Room at Crosstown Arts!
Mark Edgar Stuart
Mark Edgar Stuart has toured and played on dozens of critically-acclaimed records including an appearance on “The Late Show with David Letterman.” With little fuss or fanfare he became the go-to bass player for an elite group of record producers and artists. His no-nonsense style always played a supporting role that was close to the spotlight, but not too close… Cancer changes things, and so does losing your father. When all of these things happened in rapid succession Mark took some time to heal, and reevaluate. In 2010 He put down his bass, picked up a guitar, and started writing songs he never thought anybody outside his family would ever hear. It’s possible nobody ever would have heard them either, if not for the encouragement of his colleagues. His debut album earned him “Record Of The Year” by the Memphis Flyer. Soon he was opening for all his heroes including Leon Russell, Tony Joe White, Levon Helm, and Billy Joe Shaver. Grammy-winning music writer/director Robert Gordon is a big fan, often spinning Mark’s tracks on his weekly radio show, and other critics agree: “His acerbic wit is reminiscent of John Prine and Randy Newman” (No Depression); “His wry, cutting view of the world makes something old new again” (Paste); “Always maintaining a tender demeanor, his songwriting is smart as it is sincere” (Pop Matters). Quick-witted, empathetic, and self-deprecating, aloof but probably alert of the room tone, most folks will find themselves compatible with Mark Edgar Stuart, whose complementary musicality and contagiously honest voice showcase a resilient and relaxed artist, both sage and seasoned.
You’ll have a tough time finding a more widely-embraced modern singer-songwriter in Memphis
Keith Sykes
Once upon a time in the summer of 1967, Keith Sykes hitchhiked to the Newport Folk Festival and saw Arlo Guthrie perform “Alice’s Restaurant.” In the fall of that year he got a copy of the album, learned the whole song and sang it at a Holiday Inn in Charleston, South Carolina. They hired him on the spot for a regular gig playing music in the hotel. It’s pretty perfect that such a rambling tale should be at the start of Keith’s own rambling tale – in the more than 40 years that followed, he would become a troubadour and storyteller, a massively successful songwriter with more than 100 songs recorded by artists as diverse as Rosanne Cash and George Thorogood. He would tour every corner of America and play in just about every conceivable kind of venue, appear on Saturday Night Live and Austin City Limits, and host songwriter nights on Memphis’ legendary Beale Street with many of music’s most talented songwriters. He would join Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, tour the country and record the Volcano album – the title track for which he co-wrote with Jimmy. To date, recordings of Keith’s songs have sold more than 25 million copies worldwide. With 13 full-length albums released – and great success with his own publishing company, credited with signing John Kilzer to Geffen Records and the discovery of Todd Snider – Keith Sykes has proven to be nothing short of prolific.
Jimmy Davis
Jimmy Davis’ songs have been recorded by Martina McBride, Restless Heart, Tommy Alverson, Reba Russell, Walt Wilkins, as well as a myriad of other recording artists. As a backing vocalist, Jimmy has lent his extensive vocal talents to projects by numerous recording artists including, The North Mississippi Allstars, Jim Dickinson, Johnny Lang, Bernie Leadon, Keith Sykes, Michael Hearne, Toy Caldwell, Susan Marshall, Mark Collie and William Lee Golden. It’s Jimmy’s warmth, charisma and talent as a writer – performer that endear him to his well known peers. In the early 1980’s Jimmy began touring with the country recording artist, Charly McClain, as a rhythm guitar player and backing vocalist. In 1987, Jimmy Davis & Junction signed with MTV’s QMI/MCA record label. The band’s first release “Kick the Wall” yielded a top 40 AOR hit and a hit MTV Video. Junction was renowned for their live performances, and their songs took the band on a wild, rock and roll ride around the world. Aching to get back to his roots, Jimmy, headed back to Memphis in 1995 and had the pleasure of hooking up with some of his old buddies, The Riverbluff Clan, a rocking bluegrass outfit from the 70’s. With Jimmy on lead vocals and guitar, the band released two critically-acclaimed independent albums, in 1996, “One Night In A Month of Sunday’s” and 1998, “Two Quarts Low” an Americana Top 20 record. Jimmy was named “Premier Male Vocalist” five times by the Memphis chapter of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences and was well loved by local audiences.
Refund policy:
Tickets may be refunded up to 72 hours in advance.
Tickets for shows that are cancelled will be refunded.
In the case of a postponed show, tickets will be refunded upon request, otherwise tickets will automatically be transferred to the new date.

Anthony Q
2023-07-08 14:30 - 16:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents Anthony Q in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Saturday, July 8, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 day of the show
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Memphis during the ’80s, Anthony Q’s musical journey was shaped by the rich and diverse sounds of the era. Growing up, he was surrounded by the influence of his father, a talented background singer who toured with the legendary Prince during his World Tour. These early experiences ignited Anthony Q’s passion for music and set him on a path toward creating his unique sound.
Inspired by the soulful harmonies of the boy band era in the ’90s, with artists like H-Town, Silk, and Jagged Edge resonating deeply with him, Anthony Q discovered his love for R&B and hip-hop. He honed his vocal skills and developed a distinctive style that blended the smoothness of R&B with the raw energy of hip-hop, creating a sound that captured the essence of both genres.
At the start of his career, Anthony Q joined a singing group that toured extensively across Tennessee, showcasing their talents and captivating audiences with their performances. With the support of his brother Vincent Jr., a prominent promoter in Tennessee, Anthony Q gained exposure and established a name for himself in the local music scene.
After a brief hiatus, Anthony Q returned to the music scene with renewed purpose. Determined to share authentic and meaningful music with him and the culture he represents, he set out to create a body of work that speaks to real-life experiences. His lyrics delve into the complexities of hardship, love, friendship, and the joys and challenges of fatherhood, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level.
In 2022, Anthony Q released his highly anticipated singles, “Cut Ties” and “No Handouts.” The singles showcased his growth as an artist and received widespread praise for his honesty, vulnerability, and artistic merit. With its soulful melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and impeccable production, “Cut Ties” and “No Handouts” solidified Anthony Q’s position as a rising star in the R&B/hip-hop landscape as he became a viral sensation overnight.
With a bright future ahead, Anthony Q represents the present and future of R&B and hip-hop. His music transcends boundaries, touching the hearts of listeners from all walks of life. As he continues to create and share his art, Anthony Q’s dedication to authenticity and ability to connect with audiences profoundly will undoubtedly propel him to even greater heights in the music industry.

Shoot & Splice: Screen Acting
2023-07-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Crosstown Theater, 1350 Concourse Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Indie Memphis and Crosstown Arts present Shoot & Splice: Screen Acting in Crosstown Theater.
Crosstown Theater at Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Doors open at 6:30 pm | Show begins at 7 pm
Tickets: Free and open to the public
Indie Memphis & Crosstown Arts are excited to present our next Shoot & Splice: Screen Acting hosted by Akono Dixon. Akono will lead a presentation and discussion on the craft of acting; from building a character and working with a director, to script analysis, auditioning technique, and more. A Memphis native, Akono is a rising filmmaker with credits including DOLEMITE IS MY NAME, EUPHORIA, and the lead role in the upcoming Hallmark film, SPRING BREAKTHROUGH directed by Mykelti Williamson.

*Complimentary beverages provided by Crosstown Arts
Shoot & Splice is a FREE filmmaker forum presented by Crosstown Arts and Indie Memphis, featuring a wide variety of technical, educational, and unique topics of interest to the Memphis filmmaking community.

Modern Masters Jazz Series: Pat Bianchi
2023-07-11 14:30 - 17:00 | Crosstown Arts, The Green Room, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, Memphis, TN, 38104, United States
Crosstown Arts presents the Modern Masters Jazz Series: Pat Bianchi with the Ted Ludwig Trio in The Green Room.
The Green Room at Crosstown Arts
Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Doors open at 7 pm | Show begins at 7:30 pm
Tickets: $20 in advance | $25 at the door | $10 student tickets at the door
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Grammy-nominated organist, winner of DownBeat magazine’s 2016 rising star poll and Hot Housemagazine’s 2019 poll, Pat Bianchi has established himself as one of the premier organists on the international scene today. His command of the instrument, harmonic prowess, rhythmic intensity and versatility are rivaled by few. Bianchi has had the honor of being a longtime member of jazz guitar icon Pat Martino’s trio and also performed with NEA Jazz Master and saxophone legend Lou Donaldson’s quartet for a number of years as well.
He has released eight CDs as a leader and is also a featured artist on over 30 recordings. Building on the success of his 2015 recording A Higher Standard, his 2019 release In The Moment rose to #1 on the Jazzweek Radio Charts and features an array of guests including Pat Martino, Kevin Mahogany, Joe Locke, Peter Bernstein, Paul Bollenback, Byron Landham, Carmen Intorre Jr. Bianchi briefly steps away from his straight-ahead roots on his newest release (2021) Something To Say.
Bianchi, who comes from a musically gifted family, began playing organ at the age of 7, after receiving a Farfisa Compact Duo organ as a Christmas gift. His grandfathers (Pat Bianchi – Saxophone, and Richard Zona – Trumpet) along with his father (Nick Bianchi – Drums) all working musicians, provided a great deal of support and guidance early in his musical development. Recognizing Pat’s continuing affinity for music, his parents enrolled him in classical piano study. While still maintaining a strong interest in organ, he was playing his first professional gigs by the age of 11, eventually performing with dance bands around his hometown of Rochester, NY. Bianchi’s interest shifted in his high school years as he began to also focus more on jazz piano. Enrolling in The Eastman School of Music’s preparatory program for piano and music theory, Pat was also mentored by numerous musicians in the Rochester jazz scene, eventually choosing to continue his studies at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Bianchi never lost sight of his love of Jazz Organ and since a B3 was still out of his reach, he began spending more time on a smaller version of the famed instrument called a Hammond M100. With his passion and dedication, (also not being able to play left hand bass on a Spinet organ) Bianchi taught himself to play bass lines solely with his foot pedals. It was shortly after this time that Bianchi had a chance encounter with his hero (and soon to be mentor) Joey DeFrancesco. This was the moment Pat knew that in time he would leave the piano behind for the Hammond B3. After graduating Berklee cum laude, Bianchi secured the position as the house pianist at the famous El Chapultepec club in Denver, CO. The Pec (as it is known to locals) often brought in guest artists giving Pat the opportunity to play with such greats as Red Holloway, Dakota Staton, Carl Fontana, Javon Jackson, Mark Elf, Bud Shank, Brad Leali, Pete Christlieb, and Conte Candoli. After being at the Pec for six nights a week for almost three years, Pat became an important fixture on the Denver jazz scene.
At this time, Bianchi decided to focus exclusively on the organ making his national debut as an organist, appearing on two recordings as a member the Denver based organ trio, 3osity. The national release of Art of The Jazz Organ Trio and the subsequent recording Tri-O-City brought Bianchi wider recognition and onto a larger stage as a rising star of the organ.
Moving to NYC, Bianchi quickly established himself in the competitive New York scene. At this time, legendary saxophonist Lou Donaldson immediately took notice of the young organist. Bianchi then joined the faculty of the University of Colorado at Boulder Jazz Studies Program teaching piano, theory, and ensembles to undergraduate, masters, and doctoral students. During this time he recorded his first album as a leader, East Coast Roots, which features Mark Whitfield on guitar and Byron Landham on drums. At the same time, Bianchi began working closely with drummer Ralph Peterson Jr. on collaborative projects, including and co-leading The Unity Project (a tribute to organist Larry Young and his album Unity).
Upon returning to New York City in June of 2008, Pat officially joined The Lou Donaldson’s quartet in 2009. Continuing to play with Lou, Bianchi also joined Pat Martino’s working trio in 2011 while taking on the responsibilities as musical director. Bianchi is featured on numerous recordings such as Tim Warfield’s Sentimental Journey, a follow up to Warfield’s recording One For Shirley (on which he also appears) as well as guitarist Chuck Loeb’s release, Plain and Simple. At this time Bianchi also continued to perform with drummer Ralph Peterson Jr., forging ahead with The Unity Project. Bianchi was featured, recording much of this material on Peterson’s CD Outer Reaches. Soon after Bianchi released his second recording as a leader, Back Home. This recording features Terell Stafford, Ralph Peterson Jr., Wayne Escoffery, Carmen Intorre Jr. and Gilad Hekselman.
Bianchi not only continues to collaborate, tour and record with many well known musicians, he is also very active in the educational front. Pat has been on faculty at Temple University (Philadelphia, PA) and Queens College (NYC), and is currently on faculty at Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA).
