If you need even more jazz after last weekend’s Blue Jay Jazz Festival, head to the San Bernardino Valley College auditorium on Saturday, Sept. 5 for the fifth annual installment of the San Bernardino Symphony’s jazz ensemble concert series.
Launched in 2021 by San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra Music Director Anthony Parnther, this annual series ensures Inland Empire residents can experience world-class jazz performances close to home. The series’ long-term sustainability was recently secured through a generous grant from the Thomas R. and Mary Ellen Brigante Trust.
The Symphony’s award-winning resident conductor, Raphaela Lacerda, will host the event. “After the incredible response to previous concerts, we’re thrilled to welcome back the Josh Nelson Ensemble for another unforgettable performance,” said Maestra Lacerda. “Our up-close jazz series has quickly become a highlight each season, and we’re delighted to bring it again to the stunning San Bernardino Valley College auditorium.”
The afternoon’s repertoire will highlight the profound lineage of modern acoustic jazz piano mastery, balancing muscular post-bop energy with deeply emotive storytelling. The ensemble will perform Nelson’s acclaimed original works, including “Red Car Reminiscing,” “Introspection on 401” and “Spirit.” These visual compositions blend ambient, modern textures with rich historical tributes, such as Southern California’s vintage transit lines.
The program will also honor the legendary innovators of jazz piano. Audiences will experience the driving, gospel-tinged hard bop of Mulgrew Miller (“Grew’s Tune,” “Leilani’s Leap“), the explosive European classical romanticism of Michel Petrucciani (“Sahara,” “Home”), the fierce polyrhythms of Kenny Kirkland (“Dienda“) and the modal, spiritual grooves of West Coast masters like George Cables and Mike Wofford.
The San Bernardino Valley College auditorium is located at 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino at the north end of campus facing Mt. Vernon. Free parking is available adjacent to the Auditorium on concert day.
Tickets for the Sept. 5 jazz ensemble concert are available at $20 to $100 per seat and may be purchased online by visiting www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday. Seats for students and active military are available for $15.
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