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

The James Austin, Jr. Trio

The gifted, superb jazz pianist JAMES AUSTIN, JR. headlines on SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11th in our series’ second fall program. Noted N.Y. sidemen bassist BEN RUBENS & drummer BEN ZWEIG complete his trio. Austin’s program celebrates two important figures in the world of music. BARRY HARRIS, the late, legendary jazz pianist who was his primary mentor & Stevie Wonder’s enduring musical appeal.

Chicago native Austin’s jazz career blossomed in 2005 when he became an award-winner at the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition. Extensive mentoring from legendary jazz pianist Barry Harris followed, as did the growth of opportunities for him with many jazz notables. Guitarists Peter Bernstein, Russell Malone & Bobby Broom were among them, as were horn players Frank Morgan, Joe Magnarelli & drummers Winard Harper & Willie Jones.

Austin continues as an important piano voice in jazz traveling throughout the U.S. & abroad to entertain audiences of jazz lovers. He’s also done well arranging music, something fully displayed in his well received CD: “Songs in the Key of Wonder.” It makes great jazz listening from tunes originally made famous by music icon, Stevie Wonder.