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TRYON—The Michael Jefry Stevens Quartet will return to the Tryon Fine Arts Center on Sunday, March 23, at 3 p.m. following a sell-out concert at TFAC last fall. This time, the featured artist is the incomparable jazz violinist Christian Howes. On piano is musical director Michael Jefry Stevens, joined by Rick Dilling, drums, and Adam Booker, double bass.

The concert is on TFAC’s Veh Main Stage, where the audience is seated, too, creating a unique, intimate experience for enjoying jazz. 

The program includes many favorites from the Great American Songbook, such as “Body and Soul,” “In A Mellow Tone,” and “Jitterbug Waltz,” plus some elegant jazz compositions by Stevens.

Stevens is a nationally and internationally known jazz pianist, composer, and teacher and has been a Steinway Artist for many years. He has composed over 360 jazz pieces and recorded over 100 CDs. His improvisational style is often compared to the late great Bill Evans. He lives in Black Mountain, where he teaches jazz piano/composition on Zoom when not performing.

Growing up in Ohio, Howes started playing the violin at five. By 16 he was a violin soloist in the Columbus (OH) Symphony Orchestra while also playing in rock bands and gospel churches. An early influence was Les Paul, with whom he played for 11 years, developing an exuberant, uplifting style. Residing in Asheville, Howes performs, teaches and composes jazz. In addition, he is a public speaker with an inspiring life story that he brings to at-risk kids, the homeless and prison populations.

There will be an intermission with light appetizers and libations. For concert tickets, visit tryonarts.org or call (828) 859-8322.

 

Submitted by Darlene Cah