Kennett Jazzfest 4/29

Kennett Festivals presents Jazzfest 2023 on April 29 at noon

Kennett Brewing Company, Holly Peters, and The Flash

$25 for daytime tickets, $30 for headliner

Grab tickets here!

Artist Bios:

E. Shawn Qaissaunee Trio:

E. Shawn Qaissaunee Trio features “Q” on guitar with outstanding musicians Jason Fraticelli on bass and Matt Scarano on drums. Their musical journey takes listeners to a place where jazz, funk, rock and world music coexist. Their latest album “More Than Happy” is an engaging and exciting ride for all to enjoy.

Jason Newman Trio:

The Jason Newman Trio featuring pianist & composer, Jason Newman, bassist, Jason Fraticelli & drummer, Tony Deangelis, have been performing together for over the last ten years throughout the greater Philadelphia area. They recorded and released their debut trio album, “Entwined”, in 2015; with all original compositions written by Jason Newman. The trio continues to collaborate on new original music/arrangements and work towards future performance and recording opportunities.

Calli Graver:

Calli Graver has shaped a versatile career as a crossover vocalist. Not only has she sung with legends like Josh Groban, Aretha Franklin, Andrea Bocelli, Christian McBride, Peter Nero, and Michael Bublé, but she’s also been honored to work with several symphonies, orchestras and philharmonics spanning the nation. Her new release, “The Sun’s In My Eyes” accompanies fans in their day to day journeys, exploring sophisticated writing and musicianship  with warmth, nostalgia, and plain ol’ fun!

Terry Klinefelter Trio:

Terry Klinefelter brings a trio to this year’s festival including her husband, Paul Klinefelter, once voted Philadelphia’s best jazz bassist by WRTI, and legendary drummer, Bill Goodwin. They will be playing a set of originals and standards.

Lucas Brown Trio:

Lucas Brown, John Swana and Doug Hirlinger have been making music together for over two decades, developing an infectious brand of interplay and musical telepathy.  The trio delights in exploring the unique dynamic range of the organ, EVI and drums combination.  Steeped in the Philadelphia Jazz tradition, all three musicians’ long careers speak for themselves.

Abstract Truth:

Abstract Truth is a uniquely instrumented “big” band.  With the intimacy of a small group and the explosive power of a large ensemble it features the soloist as the dominant feature.  It’s a cult big band for big band junkies- different – exciting.

Pat Bianchi:

A modern ambassador of the mighty Hammond B3, Grammy nominated organist Pat Bianchi demonstrates a deep knowledge of jazz-organ history yet draws from a wide range of other musical influences. The result is a unique and creative voice that acknowledges the tradition while looking beyond at the same moment.

U.S.E. Trio:

U.S.E. Trio has been described as adventurous, fresh, exciting, ferocious, focused, soothing, organic, heartfelt, and honest. The trio hosts two monthly music series’ in Philadelphia, the Creative Concepts in Jazz Series and Jazz Night at the Ukrainian League, whereupon they continue to workshop new compositions, arrangements, and improvisations. U.S.E. Trio is represented by Ukrainian record label, LabelWhoAble.

Ensemble Novo:

Ensemble Novo celebrates the windswept melodies and easygoing dance rhythms of Brazil. The Philadelphia-based group looks at samba, bossa nova and contemporary styles through the lens of improvisation, creating a warm, spacious, perfect-for-chilling sound. The musicians balance crisp group execution with spirited solo explorations, evoking the vibe of Rio’s beaches or sleek Sao Paulo cocktail lounge.

John Bickel Quartet:

John Bickel Quartet offers a delicious vibrant gumbo of jazz, blues, and soul music delivered fresh to you, made to order! Featuring the dynamic rhythmic stylings of Jeff Piscitello on drums, luscious and heady saxophone work by Jason Blythe, the energetic powerhouse that is Mike Raymond Jr. on guitar, and the greasy mother lode of Hammond B3 from John Bickel. All Philadelphia area locals, all Philadelphia classic soul, the home of the B3 sound; we’ll see you there!