Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
In Memoriam: James Blood Ulmer, 1940–2026
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
The Monterey Jazz Festival has announced the members of its 2008 Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, the fest’s high school all-star big band.
The Next Generation Jazz Orchestra nurtures the future generation of jazz stars through a program that selects the best and brightest high school jazz musicians in the country. In 2008, the 21-piece jazz orchestra features members selected from 18 high schools.
Under the direction of Paul Contos, the orchestra includes:
Saxophones:
John Palowitch, alto***
Hailey Niswanger, alto
Adam Larson, tenor**
Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, tenor
Owen Broder, baritone**
Trombones:
John Egizi
Javier Nero**
Stephen Szabadi**
Natalie Cressman
Emmanuel Rojas, bass
Trumpets:
Blake Martin
Kevin Early**
Gabe Medd
Nick Frenay**
Noah Hocker
Rhythm:
Emmet Cohen, piano
Mike Gurrola, bass
Armand Hirsch, guitar
Jimmy Macbride, drums
Daniel Nadeau, drums
Richard Saunders, vocals
** 2-time member of NGJO; *** 3-time member of NGJO
More info: montereyjazzfestival.org
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
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