Global Concepts Charter High School, Lackawanna High School, and St. Francis High School are proud to present the 2nd Annual Jazz Festival, honoring Lackawanna/Buffalo native, Dr. Lonnie Smith. This celebration of jazz will feature the extraordinary talents of renowned jazz organist Gerry Youngman of the Paradigm Shift Jazz Trio, a close friend and former student of Dr. Smith.
In addition to performances by the high school ensembles from St. Francis, Lackawanna, and Global Concepts Charter High School, the festival will include a special appearance by the Jay/Sharptet Little Big Band, along with other exciting acts.
Dr. Lonnie Smith, a legendary figure in the jazz world, was born on July 3, 1942, in Lackawanna, NY, just south of Buffalo. He credited his musical upbringing to his mother, a gospel singer who introduced him to both jazz and classical music. As a teenager, Smith developed a profound passion for the Hammond organ, drawing inspiration from greats like Wild Bill Davis, Bill Doggett, and Jimmy Smith. His remarkable talent soon caught the attention of jazz luminaries such as alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson, organist Jack McDuff, and guitarist George Benson, who hired him in 1964.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to jazz, Dr. Smith was honored with the prestigious title of National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master in 2017.
LINKS:
All Ages Admitted
Ticketing fees are included in the price.
Elevate your experience on the mezzanine by selecting Floor 2 on the seating chart.
Our à la carte food menu is available from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Please note: The Caz operates as a cashless venue and a 20% service fee is added to every transaction in the venue.