May 1, 2025
A Tokyo native, Meg Okura is a Grammy-nominated violinist and award-winning composer based in the Bronx, New York. As a teen, Ms. Okura toured Asia as the soloist and concertmaster of the Asian Youth Orchestra. At 19, she made her U.S. solo debut at Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. She earned B.M. and MM degrees from the Juilliard School as a violin performance major, only to make a difficult switch to jazz upon graduation. She has toured internationally as a violinist, appearing at Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Barbican Hall in the U.K., Madison Square Garden, Village Vanguard, Blue Note Tokyo, Hollywood Bowl, and numerous jazz and Jewish music festivals worldwide with many jazz greats such as Lee Konitz, Michael Brecker, Tom Harrel, Steve Swallow, Sam Newsome, Diane Reeves, as well as David Bowie, Pharaoh’s Daughter, Cirque du Soleil, Emilio Solla, and many others.
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Apr 24, 2025
Sam Newsome is a composer and pioneering soprano saxophonist celebrated for his groundbreaking solo work and fresh approaches to jazz improvisation. He first gained prominence playing with jazz legends such as Terence Blanchard and Donald Byrd, showcasing his deep roots in the tradition. Over the years, he has redefined the possibilities of the soprano saxophone, garnering five-star reviews in DownBeat Magazine for his groundbreaking works. While known for his experimental work, Newsome brings a soulful and engaging approach to this performance, bridging jazz’s rich past with its evolving future.
Feb 4, 2025
Jazz Maui presents Sunset Jazz featuring SHELL YEAH, a quartet of Maui musicians including vocalist Sheryl Renee, guitarist Shawn McLaughlin, U-bass and bassist Barney Cortez, and drummer and cajon player Ian Hollingsworth. The group brings a fun and soulful flavor to cover popular songs that range from standards to dance hits. They have built an impressive following with those who love to call out “SHELL YEAH’.
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Jan 30, 2025
The Hula Honeys are longtime friends, Robyn Kneubuhl and Ginger Johnson, who play a wide range of music including jazz, swing, Tin Pan Alley, vintage blues, and world music. Blending vintage Hapa Haole songs with hip jazz classics, they create a swinging sweet sound all their own.
Jan 21, 2025
Internationally-acclaimed song-stylist and Grammy-nominated lyricist Mary Anne Anderson has a smooth style. Her voice is expressive and warm making it perfectly matched for the timeless classics and original songs she performs. Her flair for languages makes her interpretation of melody and lyrics an authentic jazz experience.
