Jazz & Blues Showcase: The James Austin, Jr. Trio

The Jazz & Blues Showcase final show of the season we welcome the gifted pianist James Austin, Jr. on Sunday, June 23rd. Mr. Austin’s classic jazz trio includes noted jazzmen Ben Rubens on bass and drummer Kayvon Gordon.

Chicago native Austin’s professional career in jazz blossomed when he became an award-winner at the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition in 2005. Extensive mentoring from the legendary jazz pianist Barry Harris followed for him, as did the growth of his performances with many jazz notables. Guitarists Peter Bernstein, Rusell Malone & Bobby Broom were among them, as were horn players Frank Morgan, Joe Magnarelli & drummers Winard Harper & Willie Jones. Austin’s also done well arranging music. This was on display in a recent, well received CD of his, “Songs in the Key of Wonder.” It made for great jazz listening from tunes that were made famous by the legendary Stevie Wonder.