There’s Something Jazz For Everyone! World-class jazz performers assemble for an unforgettable weekend of diverse jazz that inspires the soul and warms the heart.

The Artists

Steve Smith and Vital Information: Smith, was the former drummer for rock group Journey, from 1978 to 1985. Their arena hit period with vocalist Steve Perry. He’s one of the most versatile and electrifying drummers playing today! He formed his jazz fusion music group, Vital Information in 1983, and in 2023, the group released their 40th anniversary recording, Time Flies. Smith’s latest edition of Vital Information includes the extraordinary Cuban pianist/composer Manuel Valera and British bassist Janek Gwizdala.

Latin Jazz Conspiracy: Formed in the Summer of 2007 by percussionist Ernesto Laboy and saxophonist Eric Musselwhite, this Hampton Roads combo - with bassist Jordan Ponzi and other percussionist play authentic Latin, Afro-Cuban and Brazilian rhythms south of New York City and North of Miami. With the three horn front line, powerful and soulful Latin grooves, the band can deliver beautiful boleros and fiery descargas and salsa at its best!!!  

Everette Harp: This Grammy nominated Houston native made his name on the smooth jazz circuit, but he has undeniable roots in mainstream acoustic jazz. He’s worked with a plethora of stars, including Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Al Jarreau and Chaka Khan, He’s recorded nine albums as a leader include Common Ground, Better Days and What’s Going On?

Michael Hawkins & The Brotherhood: Swingin Richmond based bassist Michael Hawkins has worked with Gary Bartz, Cindy Blackman-Santana, Leon Thomas and Cyrus Chestnut, to name a very select few. Hawkins formed The Brotherhood in 2018 with alto saxophonist James “Saxmo” Gates, pianist Dr. Weldon Hill and drummer Billy Williams, Jr.

Jae Sinnett: a one man synthesis of Art Blakey’s power, Elvin Jones’ complex cross-rhythms, and Max Roach’s percussive precision, Hampton Roads resident Jae Sinnett is one of the most durable and dynamic drummers on the scene: He’s worked with Ellis Marsalis, Freddie Hubbard, Randy Brecker, James Moody, Frank Morgan, Fred Hersch and Mulgrew Miller. He’s released over twenty recordings as a leader, including his latest release, The Blur the Lines Project, which features Sinnett’s return to his rock roots, playing the music of Rush, Rare Earth, The Edgar Winter Group, Steppenwolf, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin. Sinnett formed The Hampton Roads Jazz Incorporated (HR Jazz), non-profit 501C3 organization in 2023. He will be featured performing with the Latin Jazz Conspiracy and Everette Harp.