Winter Warmers at Jazz Alley: A Hot Lineup Kicks Off 2024
Jahari Stampley. Image: Jazz Alley

Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, is turning up the heat this winter with a blistering lineup of performances in January and February 2024. The next two months are stacked with legendary names, rising stars, and genre-bending collaborations that will keep you feeling balmy during Seattle’s dark and rainy nights.

January: From Trumpet Titans to Rising Phenoms

The month kicks off with Chris Botti, the Grammy-winning trumpeter who is known for his blending of jazz with pop, celebrates the release of his first album in over a decade with a four-night run (January 17-21). Lakecia Benjamin and Phoenix takes center stage next (January 23-24), bringing their blend of alto saxophone, funk, and soul to Seattle. The iconic duo of Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin (January 25-28) rounds out the month with the perfect mix of guitars and keys to ease you in to February. 

But before you close out the first month of 2024, Jazz Alley welcomes a rising star with the debut of Jahari Stampley (January 30-31). This 24-year-old piano prodigy is fresh off an acclaimed debut album and a string of awards, and the jazz world is taking note.

February: From Saxophone Summits to Philly Soul

February opens with a saxophone showdown as Michael Lington and Paul Taylor (February 1-4) combine their chart-topping talents for a weekend of contemporary combination of soul and Jazz vibes. History and heart come together next with the first annual Clarence Acox Gala (February 5), a fundraising event celebrating the legacy of this Seattle jazz legend.

Jazz history continues with NEA Jazz Master Kenny Barron Trio (February 6-7), whose masterful interplay of piano, bass, and drums are legendary. Switching gears, Blood Sweat & Tears (February 8-11) bring their iconic horn-driven sound and timeless hits to the Jazz Alley stage. 

Feast of Saint Valentine

Jazz Alley gets in the Valentine’s mood over the next week with an evening with Lucia Micarelli (February 13 -14). Micarelli, a violinist with a global span, collaborates with Chris Botti (among other notables) who kicked off Jazz Alley’s foray into 2024.  Acclaimed saxophonist, Mindi Abair, follows with a four-night run with her Wine and Jazz Tour (February 15 – 18). Jazz Alley will be offering wines from Mindi’s company all through her residency. As Mindi recommends, “sip generously, listen loudly, repeat often.” 

Making their way back to the Emerald City, The Cookers – comprised of some OG, hard bop jazz masters of the 60s – roll into Jazz Alley for a two night stand (February 20-21). Speaking of old school, The Stylistics (February 22-25) bring a touch of Philly soul with their distinctive love songs and classic R&B.

And to close out the month, Anat Cohen Tentet fills the stage with her wide range of musicians (February 27-28). In addition to Cohen Tentet on clarinet, expect to find a cello, trumpet, flugelhorn, baritone saxophone, trombone, electric guitar, piano, accordion, upright bass, drums, vibraphone, and various percussion. Musical Director Oded Lev Ari will be there to pull it all together. 

Whether you’re a seasoned jazz fan or simply looking for a winter escape filled with good music and good vibes, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley has all of the bases covered. 

Check the Jazz Alley website or subscribe to their newsletter for updates on last-minute shows, special events, and ticketing information.