artist info

“There’s an argument to be made that Jason Marsalis is the most interesting musician in his illustrious jazz clan.” – S.F Gate

Tradition is something Marsalis understands deeply. Not only is he a part of the famous New Orleans jazz tradition, which has created innumerable music legends including those of his renowned musical family, his father Ellis and older brothers Wynton, Branford, and Delfeayo have dramatically influenced the jazz world for almost two decades. Jason is no exception, possessing the technical virtuosity, innate rhythmic aplomb and the compositional ingenuity associated with his forbearers. But deep roots haven’t prevented him from also developing a refreshingly progressive approach, fueled by eclectic influences (he’s just as likely to reference Igor Stravinsky, Tito Puente and Billy Cobham as Max Roach and Art Blakey) and diverse professional associations in his native New Orleans.

Known by many for his time with Los Hombres, the Marcus Roberts Trio, Bela Fleck and the Lionel Hampton Orchestra sometimes on drums, other times on vibes, it was 2013 that was his monumental year. Marsalis released his second recording as a leader on vibes entitled In a World of Mallets. The album went to #1 on the CMJ Radio Charts and also won an Offbeat Magazine award, and a New Orleans music magazine award for “Best Contemporary Jazz Album.” His most recent release Heirs of the Crescent City (1/8/2016) is the soundtrack to the independent film documentary Heirs by Sascha Just.

A daring improviser, Charles also delivers with heart-wrenching lyricism” - Jazz Times

Born on the Island of Trinidad in 1983, Etienne Charles defies easy musical categorization. A recipient of a 2015 Guggenheim Fellowship and recent Chamber Music America Grant for New Works, Charles has been hailed by Jazz Times as "A daring improviser who delivers with heart wrenching lyricism." Etienne has received critical acclaim for his exciting performances, thrilling compositions and knack for connecting with audiences worldwide. More recently, he received the distinct honor of being selected as a 2015 Guggenheim Fellow in the Creative Arts. In 2012 Etienne was written into the US Congressional Record for his musical contributions to Trinidad & Tobago and the World.

His new release San Jose Suite just hit #2 on the Jazz Week Chart! His 2013 release Creole Soul spent three consecutive weeks at #1 on the Jazz Week Chart as well as reaching #25 on the Billboard Jazz Charts. Creole Soul was named as the #3 Jazz Album of 2013 by Jazz Week. A highly regarded educator, he currently serves as Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at MSU. He holds a Master’s degree from the Julliard School and Bachelor’s from FSU.