Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University presents The Joey Alexander Trio on April 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Acclaimed jazz prodigy Joey Alexander has impressed audiences globally with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing. Famed jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing—his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of music.”
The Bali-born musician began teaching himself the piano at the age of six, and at the age of nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine, which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. Joey has performed at major festivals and renowned venues worldwide, including Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall and the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival since the age of ten.
The now 14-year-old pianist is the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for two GRAMMYs. In addition to releasing the critically acclaimed surprise album “Joey. Monk. Live!” late 2017, Joey’s new album “Eclipse,” which is available May 4 on Motéma Music, showcases his significant progress as an astute composer, writing six of the 11 tunes. Musco Center will be the first venue in California to premiere music from his new album.
Joey will be joined onstage with bass player Kristopher Funn and drummer Johnathan Blake. Kristopher has toured internationally with alto saxophonist Kenny Garrett, and played at every major jazz festival globally performing with artists, including Christian Scott, Nicholas Payton, Benny Golson, and Bruce Williams. He has also appeared on several recordings including Christian Scott’s albums “Yesterday You Said Tomorrow,” “Christian aTunde Adjuah,” and “Stretch Music” as well as his debut album “Cornerstone.”
Tickets for April 27 are on sale now for $35-60 and may be purchased through the Musco Center online at www.muscocenter.org or by calling the box office at 844-OC-MUSCO (844-626-8726). All print-at-home tickets include a no-cost parking pass. Musco Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Chapman University at 415 North Glassell, Orange.
