Tickets on sale through the Blumenthal website:  https://www.blumenthalarts.org/events/detail/noel-and-maria-home-for-the-holidays

Come join us as we present a jazz celebration of the music of Billy Joel and Elton.  The Noel Freidline Quartet will be joined by vocalist Adam McKnight.  Adam was Elton John's vocal arranger for a number of years, appearing with Elton at everything from Madison Square Garden to Live Aid.  Most recently Adam was featured with his choir, Voice of Atlanta, at the 2019 Super Bowl halftime show, backing up Maroon 5.

Join Noel & Maria as they appear as part of the South Carolina Jazz Festival. 

Join Noel Freidline as he brings a multi-media presentation on the touring Broadway show "The Play That Goes Wrong" and the history of slapstick comedy.  Snacks and drinks provided free by Blumenthal Performing Arts.

Join Noel and his trio as they welcome special guest Maria Howell to the new music series at 73 & Main!

Noel Freidline on keys, Doug Henry on saxophone and Rick Cline on drums.

The Noel Freidline Quartet with vocalist Maria Howell

The Noel Freidline and Friends Jazz Series kicks back off on Sept. 13 with the Christian Tamburr Quartet.  Christian is an amazing vibraphonist.  Check him out here:  http://www.christiantamburr.com/

The Noel Freidline Quartet with vocalist Maria Howell. 

Vocalist Renee Ebalaroza joins us for the first time in almost five years. 

details coming soon!

Baker & Baker presents Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Jazz Celebration of Stevie Wonder with Noel Freidline

Stevie Wonder is undoubtedly one of the most prolific, successful, and influential artists of the 20th century, with 20 number one hits and 22 Grammy Awards. His songs have been covered in just about every genre imaginable — a testament to his genius. Renowned jazz pianist and bandleader Noel Freidline returns to the CMA with featured vocalists Maria Howell (The Color Purple, Hidden Figures, The Hunger Games) and Adam McKnight (Elton John, Maroon 5), guitarist Eric Brice (Chaka Kahn, Peabo Bryson, Stephanie Mills), and saxophonist Juan Rollan (Billy Cobham, Al Green).  

The Baker & Baker series is devoted to highlighting diverse musical performances, ranging from Baroque music with harpsichords to avant-garde music played with nontraditional materials, and showcases musical excellence in its many forms. Presented through the support of our generous sponsors: Nancy and Rick Layman, Howard Gilman Foundation, Becky and Earl Ellis, Barbara B. Boyd, Bonnie and Harry Goldberg, and Holiday Inn & Suites - Columbia Airport.

Four-person tables (includes one bottle of wine): $300 / $240 members. Join today!

Noel Freidline joins vocalist Holly Hopkins for some light vocal jazz during brunch. 

NOTE!!!  This is a SATURDAY show, not the usual SECOND FRIDAY. 

Join Noel Freidline and the Noel Freidline Quartet as they pay homage to jazz icon Dave Brubeck.  Featuring Juan Rollan on sax, Stan Piper on bass, and Al Serel on drums. 

In its 17th year, Jazz on Tap is Hickory's longest running music series.  Hosted by drummer Rick Cline, Noel Freidline joins Rick and vocalist Holly Hopkins for a great evening of jazz. 

Noel Freidline will host the Loonis McGlohon Young Jazz Artist Competition.  And the Noel Freidline Trio will back up the finalists. 

Charlotte legend Loonis McGlohon was a world-renowned master musician, composer and visionary. In recognition of his many decades as a composer, writer, and jazz ambassador, Blumenthal Performing Arts and The Leon Levine Foundation established the Loonis McGlohon Young Jazz Artist Competition as a tribute to this special individual.

From the total number of applicants, up to 10 finalists will be selected to perform at the Loonis McGlohon Young Jazz Artist Competition on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at the Tent Stage at Romare Bearden Park during the Charlotte Jazz Festival. The competition will be judged by a panel of musicians from the renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and each finalist will receive critiques from these artists during the competition.

Thanks to The Leon Levine Foundation, the first, second, and third place winners of the competition will receive, through a combination of cash and compensated performances, $3000, $2000, and $1000, respectively. These prizes were created for the purpose of enhancing the winners’ music education and launching their careers as performing jazz musicians.

The competition is free and open to the public, so come and cheer for your favorite student!

The Noel Freidline Trio hosts an open jam session in the Knight Underground (Lobby of the Knight Theatre).  All musicians welcome.  Noel Freidline - piano; Ron Brendle - bass; Al Sergel - drums. 

The Noel Freidline Trio hosts an open jam session in the Knight Underground (Lobby of the Knight Theatre).  All musicians welcome.  Noel Freidline - piano; Ron Brendle - bass; Al Sergel - drums. 

Internationally renowned jazz recording artist Nicolas Bearde brings his powerful and affecting baritone voice and soulful stylings to Jazz at the Bechtler on Friday, May 3. A highly respected showman onstage, Nicolas has won acclaim from a host of industry publications and music critics for his lush vocals and imaginative interpretations. Don’t miss this performance of time tested standards, blues, and swinging improvisational jazz works. 

Born and raised in Nashville, TN and singing as long as he can remember, Nicolas’ love of Jazz and R&B classics can be laid at his mother’s feet.  He remembers: "My Mother and her crew loved to have card parties, listen to late night radio, finger-pop, whoop and shout "Honey, hush" while listening to Billy Eckstine and Cab Calloway, And... Oh how they loved a good ballad!!" One of her favorites “Moonlight in Vermont”,  stayed in Bearde's head for over 40 years before he recorded it on his sophomore album, "All About Love" in 2005.

For the past 30+ years, Nicolas has made major marks in the world of jazz as an original member of Bobby McFerrin's innovative a cappella ensemble, "Voicestra",  while carving out his own distinctive solo career.  With classic performances and innovative interpretations of jazz standards and blues - Nicolas is the definitive jazz romantic. He'll steam you up with an original soulful song like Love Me, pull you into the nuanced emotion of a classic Bill Wither's tune, Can We Pretend, or captivate you with a stirring rendition of Naima, a John Coltrane ballad.

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. with no intermissions. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. concert and 7:45 p.m. for the 8:15 p.m. concert. General seating is first come, first served. Enjoy light bites and a cash-only bar. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they pay tribute to Dave Brubeck and his iconic quartet.  Noel Freidline - piano, Tim Gordon - saxophone, Ron Brendle - bass, Rick Dior - drums. 

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

CPCC Opera Theatre Presents “Bel Canto and Can Belto” A Concert of Great Singing with the Noel Freidline Trio

Opposites really do attract!!  “Bel Canto” is Italian for “beautiful singing.”  Classically trained singers strive for it and it’s what their audiences come to hear.  The other side of the coin….The Art of Belting.  Musical Theatre, Rock, Gospel singers and others strive to sing beautifully, but also belt.  It is what their audiences come to hear.  Think Freddie Mercury and Monserrat Caballe singing Barcelona!!   It will be a GREAT NIGHT FOR SINGING!! No Exchanges/No Refunds

Tickets on Sale Soon.

Tickets are available for $19 and $21, with tickets for children under the age of 15 available for $10. Student tickets can be purchased at the Box Office. Charlotte-area students are $5 with a student ID and all CPCC students are free with a current ID. All seating is subject to availability.

CPCC Opera Theatre Presents “Bel Canto and Can Belto” A Concert of Great Singing with the Noel Freidline Trio 

Opposites really do attract!!  “Bel Canto” is Italian for “beautiful singing.”  Classically trained singers strive for it and it’s what their audiences come to hear.  The other side of the coin….The Art of Belting.  Musical Theatre, Rock, Gospel singers and others strive to sing beautifully, but also belt.  It is what their audiences come to hear.  Think Freddie Mercury and Monserrat Caballe singing Barcelona!!   It will be a GREAT NIGHT FOR SINGING!! No Exchanges/No Refunds

Tickets on Sale Soon.

Tickets are available for $19 and $21, with tickets for children under the age of 15 available for $10. Student tickets can be purchased at the Box Office. Charlotte-area students are $5 with a student ID and all CPCC students are free with a current ID. All seating is subject to availability.

details coming soon!

details coming soon!

Join us as Jazz on Main makes it return to the Columbia Museum of Art as we present 100 years of the saxophone and the world of jazz.  Featuring the talents of Juan Rollan and Sam Skelton. 

JAZZ ON MAIN

“Celebrating the Saxophone:  The Evolution of the Sax in Jazz Music” 

Classical music has always claimed the strings and the piano.  John Phillip Sousa helped elevate the brass to a level of rock star status.  But the saxophone, a novelty instrument that was once considered one tier above the ocarina, struggled to find its place.  It would make sense that the saxophone would find its voice and its legitimacy in Jazz music, an outlier genre that itself was considered a temporary fad.  In the last 120 years jazz and the saxophone have made a stunning progression from street level entertainment to a level of artistry and execution that rivals that of Paganini or Liszt. 

On Friday, February 22^nd, 2019, JAZZ ON MAIN will make its return to the CMA with a celebration of the saxophone and the musicians who found their voice through this most unlikely instrument.  “The Evolution of Jazz Saxophone” will feature the music of such luminaries as Sidney Bechet, Lester Young, Ben Webster, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Stan Getz, and Michael Brecker. 

Juan Rollan and Sam Skelton return to JAZZ ON MAIN to bring to life and celebrate the instrument which has become their own voice and pay tribute to the legends whom have come before and paved the way.

Details to added soon! 

JAZZ FOR LOVERS ft. TONI TUPPONCE

Perhaps no other music genre tells us more about love in all its varied shades than jazz. From its openly sentimental ballads and teary torch songs to its fiery declarations of new love and playful odes to significant others, jazz numbers hit all the marks. In its ninth year at the Bechtler, the Ziad Jazz Quartet – with guest vocalist Toni Tupponce – knows well how to evoke the moods of love for Valentine’s Day. Bring your sweetie February 1 and celebrate an early Valentine's Day with jazzy love songs. Things are bound to get heated as Tupponce, voted “sexiest voice in Charlotte” by Charlotte magazine in 2006, croons romantic tunes.

PERFORMANCE

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. with no intermissions. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. concert and 7:45 p.m. for the 8:15 p.m. concert. General seating is first come, first served. Enjoy light bites and a cash-only bar. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Join us for the series premier of the Noel Freidline & Friends Jazz Series with the Noel Freidline Quartet and Maria Howell. 

New Years Eve Extravaganza with The Noel Freidline Quintet featuring Maria Howell

New Years Eve 2018

The Noel Freidline Quintet featuring Singer and Actress Maria Howell

5:00 PM-Early Seating–$85 per person++
(Includes 3 Course Dinner, Concert, Champagne Toast, Party Favors)

9:00 PM-Late Seating–$145 per person++
(Includes 5 Course Dinner, Concert, Champagne Toast, Party Favors)

++does not includes gratuities, taxes or beverages

FOR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL

843-842-8620

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet and special guest Maria Howell as they continue a NorthStone tradition, and present a special evening of holiday and seasonal favorites.  Freidline has been the featured artist several times with the Charlotte Symphony’s “Magic of Christmas.”  He brings his same clever arrangements to NorthStone as he and his quartet infuse the air with the holiday spirit, covering such classics as Vince Guaraldi’s “Christmastime Is Here,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” “Here We Come A’Wassailing,” “Let It Snow,” “The Hanukkah Song,” and even Walt Kelly’s “Deck Us All With Boston Charlie.”  This promises to be an intimate evening with great music, great food and great friends.

Kick off your holiday season Friday, December 7, as the Ziad Jazz Quartet presents Jingle Bell Jazz, one of the most popular Jazz at the Bechtler shows of the year. Classic holiday favorites such as "Winter Wonderland," "Deck the Halls" (arranged by Herbie Hancock and Chick Correa), "Sleigh Ride" and the John Coltrane version of "Greensleeves" will be performed alongside other jazz holiday renditions that are quickly becoming new classics. Jingle Bell Jazz is a hip holiday treat that has become a hit with folks looking to start the holiday season on a sassy musical note.

Join Noel Freidline and Martin Lesch for their 3rd annual presentation of dueling piano's at the Jazz Corner.  A Thanksgiving weekend tradition!

http://www.thejazzcorner.com/event1/piano-2-piano-salute-to-jazz-piano-greats-awardwinning-pianists-noel-freidline-martin-lesch-3/2018-11-23/

Join Noel Freidline and Martin Lesch for their 3rd annual presentation of dueling piano's at the Jazz Corner.  A Thanksgiving weekend tradition!

http://www.thejazzcorner.com/event1/piano-2-piano-salute-to-jazz-piano-greats-awardwinning-pianists-noel-freidline-martin-lesch-3/2018-11-23/

SPECIAL DINNER MENU WILL BE OFFERED

OPEN TO MEMBERS AND NON- MEMBERS

$20 ENTERTAINMENT CHARGE

$40 ENTERTAINMENT CHARGE WITHOUT PURCHASE OF DINNER

6:30pm doors open, 7:30pm show starts

TO PURCHASE A TICKET TO ONE OR ALL OF THE JAZZ SERIES,
PLEASE VISIT THE NORTHSTONE COUNTRY CLUB WEBSITE (https://www.northstoneclub.com/Default.aspx?p=dynamicmodule&pageid=143&ssid=100179&vnf=1) AND COMPLETE THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE ALONG WITH YOUR CREDIT CARD PAYMENT or contact lindsey davis at ldavis@northstoneclub.com.

Best known for her role as the choir soloist in the 1985 Oscar-nominated film The Color Purple, Maria Howell is a captivating, dynamic performer, combining an captivating stage presence with a musicality rarely heard in vocalists.  She has an innate ability to establish “instant rapport” with an audience.  A Gastonia, NC native, now residing in Los Angeles, Howell has been known to leave audiences mesmerized with her powerful, sultry, smooth voice, mixing R&B, gospel and soul into her renditions of jazz classics.

As an actress Howell has appeared in the feature films The Color Purple, The Hunger Games, The Blind Side, and the Academy Award nominated Hidden Figures as well TV’s “Revolution,” “Devious Maids,” and “Saints and Sinners.” As a vocalist Maria has shared the stage with Ray Charles, Najee, George Howard, Ramsey Lewis, George Benson, Nancy Wilson, lyricist Tim Rice and Marvin Hamlischamong others.

In July Maria and Noel Freidline released their first collaborative CD, “Old Devil Moon.”  Honoring some of her favorite “Ladies of Song” Howell will be joined by Noel Freidline and his quartet as she pays tribute to such legends as Nancy Wilson, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Carole King and Karen Carpenter.

https://gastonconcerts.org/2018-19-concert-season-performers-preview/

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Tickets: 18, $12 (UNC Charlotte faculty, staff, and alumni), $10 (seniors, active military, and veterans), $8 (students). CoA+A majors receive a complimentary ticket through the 49erArtsLink program.

Robinson Distinguished Professor of Theatre Andrew Hartley directs this production of Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s gender-bending comedy about a love triangle shaped by disguise, deception, and yellow stockings.

Music composed and directed by Noel Freidline

Tickets: 18, $12 (UNC Charlotte faculty, staff, and alumni), $10 (seniors, active military, and veterans), $8 (students). CoA+A majors receive a complimentary ticket through the 49erArtsLink program.

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. with no intermissions. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. concert and 7:45 p.m. for the 8:15 p.m. concert. General seating is first come, first served. Enjoy light bites and a cash-only bar. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

TICKETS

Tickets are $16 for the public and just $10 for museum members. Buy tickets online, over the phone at 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk. View the full 2018-’19 Jazz at the Bechtler lineup here.

The Jazz Corner is an amazing venue that sells out very quickly.  Reservations are recommended. 

The Jazz Corner is an amazing venue that sells out very quickly.  Reservations are recommended. 

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they bring to life the signature sound of the legendary Modern Jazz Quartet.  Featuring vibraphonist Jon Metzger!  Not to be missed!

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Concert details TBA

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they celebrate the music of the original Fab Four.  This is one of Noel Freidline's most popular and well-received shows. 

The Jazz Corner sells out quickly.  Advance reservations are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they celebrate the music of the original Fab Four.  This is one of Noel Freidline's most popular and well-received shows. 

The Jazz Corner sells out quickly.  Advance reservations are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Details TBA

details tba

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.   With Noel Freidline - piano/vocals; Mike Gudbaur - bass; Al Sergel - drums & vocals

As the weather heats up outside, the rhythms of the Jazz at the Bechtler series heat up inside the museum. June's Jazz at the Bechtler performance summons a trio of special guests to bring the sounds of Cuba, Brazil and Latin America to life with Latin Jazz. 

Latin Jazz isn't limited to just Latin America, but is rooted in the distinctive rhythms of Africa. There are several branches of Latin Jazz that include Afro-Cuban, bossa nova and samba. 

In order to do the rhythms of this music justice, the Ziad Jazz Quartet will bring a talented rhythm section to the Jazz at the Bechtler stage. Long time audience members will be familiar with Jim Brock, who brings an extensive kit of percussion instruments with him to the stage. Sitting in on bass will be Nelson Rios, who has played extensively both live and in studio. Finally, trumpeter Justin Ray will add peppery brass tones on top of the luscious beats.

Latin Jazz's set list will include Song for Chano and Work Song by Ray Barretto, Dave Valentin's version of the Wayne Shorter song Footprints, as well as a few original songs written by Ziad Rabie and Jim Brock.

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.  Noel Freidline - Piano/Vocals, Ron Brendle - Bass, Ocie Davis - drums. 

Catch the Noel Freidline Trio as Noel presents an awesome mix of jazz/swing, pop, and soul.  Noel Freidline - Piano/Vocals, Ron Brendle - Bass, Ocie Davis - drums. 

See website for more info!

Friday, September 9, 2016
LIVE Oceanside at The Sonesta Resort OCEAN PAVILION on Hilton Head Island

Award-Winning Actress/Vocalist MARIA HOWELL, Pianist/Composer NOEL FREIDLINE & Trumpeter/Vocalist JOE GRANSDEN with their SEPTET
Honoring the music of NAT KING COLE, NANCY WILSON & FRANK SINATRA

$100 VIP TICKETS
6:00 PM ~ VIP Reception with cocktails and tapas at the OCEAN PAVILION
Live entertainment before the concert at the VIP Reception
Reserved VIP seating for the concert

$25 GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS
Doors Open @ 7:00 PM

A group of UNC Charlotte theatre and music faculty and alumni will perform Cherry Jackson’s play, In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions, at the New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC) in New York City, August 12-18. Performing as the Twilight Repertory Company, the ensemble is led by Associate Professor of Theatre James Vesce, director, and Adjunct Professor of Music Noel Freidline (music director), who also created an original score for the production.

The production of In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions premiered at UNC Charlotte in February 2015 as part of the Department of Theatre season. Set in a mortuary in San Francisco in 1976, the one-act play addresses the persistent issue of police violence.

The show will be performed five times during the FringeNYC festival. The largest multi-arts festival in North America, FringeNYC is in its 20^th year and presents programming by more than 200 dance and theatre companies annually. For more information, visit the festival website.

A group of UNC Charlotte theatre and music faculty and alumni will perform Cherry Jackson’s play, In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions, at the New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC) in New York City, August 12-18. Performing as the Twilight Repertory Company, the ensemble is led by Associate Professor of Theatre James Vesce, director, and Adjunct Professor of Music Noel Freidline (music director), who also created an original score for the production.

The production of In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions premiered at UNC Charlotte in February 2015 as part of the Department of Theatre season. Set in a mortuary in San Francisco in 1976, the one-act play addresses the persistent issue of police violence.

The show will be performed five times during the FringeNYC festival. The largest multi-arts festival in North America, FringeNYC is in its 20^th year and presents programming by more than 200 dance and theatre companies annually. For more information, visit the festival website.

A group of UNC Charlotte theatre and music faculty and alumni will perform Cherry Jackson’s play, In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions, at the New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC) in New York City, August 12-18. Performing as the Twilight Repertory Company, the ensemble is led by Associate Professor of Theatre James Vesce, director, and Adjunct Professor of Music Noel Freidline (music director), who also created an original score for the production.

The production of In The Master’s House There Are Many Mansions premiered at UNC Charlotte in February 2015 as part of the Department of Theatre season. Set in a mortuary in San Francisco in 1976, the one-act play addresses the persistent issue of police violence.

The show will be performed five times during the FringeNYC festival. The largest multi-arts festival in North America, FringeNYC is in its 20^th year and presents programming by more than 200 dance and theatre companies annually. For more information, visit the festival website.

Join Noel Freidline, Juan Rollan on sax, Billy Thornton on bass and Justin Varnes on drums as they present a swinging tribute to the Fab Four.  This show received rave reviews the end of June when it was first presented at the Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, SC. 

Noel Freidline on piano/vocals, Rick Cline on drums

Noel Freidline with Doug Henry on sax, Rick Cline on drums.

Jazz pianists come in many types, and in an ensemble setting their signature styles — bluesy swing, moody modal shades, percussive comping — often determine the group’s personality. During the June 3 Jazz at the Bechtler concert, the Ziad Jazz Quartet, featuring pianist Noel Freidline, explores the styles of three singular piano stylists: Ramsey Lewis, Erroll Garner and Bill Evans.

Lewis came to the jazz public’s attention with his eponymous trio in the mid 1950s. Initially a bebop-influenced pianist, he showed his considerable range by transitioning at various stages into a popular music interpreter — his take on The In Crowd was a crossover hit in 1965, as was Wade In the Water a year later. 

The self-taught Garner transitioned smoothly from the orchestrated swing era into bebop, backing Charlie Parker on his 1947 Cool Blues session. Garner, as a stylist, was noted for his virtuoso runs though he was a more than capable balladeer, as illustrated by his 1954 hit Misty, and his take on I’ll Remember April from his definitive 1955 LP, Concert by the Sea.

Evans impressionistic and romantic style was influenced by classical piano composers Debussy and Ravel, and his timing was impeccable – Miles Davis hired him in the late 1950s and immediately began exploring the modal inventions that were second nature to Evans. Though he left Davis to form his own trio, Evans returned for Davis’s masterpiece, Kind of Blue, which was a showcase for the pianist’s harmonic architecture. Evans went on to great acclaim with his trio work, especially the lullaby-like Waltz for Debby. Evans could swing, too, as is clear on a track such as Peri’s Cope, a selection that will be featured during this concert.

Join the Noel Freidline Quintet featuring vocalist Maria Howell (http://www.mariahowell.com/singer.php) as they return to Fort Frederica Presbyterian bringing their style of sacred jazz to the Fort Frederica jazz vespers series. 

Join the Noel Freidline Quintet featuring vocalist and actress Maria Howell as they bring a blend of straight ahead and sacred jazz to the Jacksonville Jazz Festival Jazz Brunch. 

Noel Freidline and his quintet return to the best jazz club in the state of Florida.  Joining Noel and making her Heidi's debut is vocalist and actress Maria Howell - http://www.mariahowell.com/singer.php. 

You definitely don't want to miss this great group in this outstanding venue.

Noel Freidline will host and perform at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival Piano Competition. Noel will be joined by vocalist extraordinaire Maria Howell and saxophonist Juan Rollan. 

For over thirty years, the Jacksonville Piano Competition presented has been a jazz fest tradition. Presented by Keyboard Connection, it continues to be one of the most exciting musical spectacles to be seen anywhere!

Five finalists representing the very best jazz pianists in the world are chosen by a blind panel of judges to compete for a cash prize and a chance to perform on the Main Stage at this year’s festival. This fierce competition has become an integral part of the festival and a favorite among many eager to witness some of the most incredible rising talent in the jazz world.

Past judges have included jazz legends such as Marcus Roberts, Brian Culbertson, Jason Miles, Joey Calderazzo, Lynne Arriale, Dr. John, Per Danielsson, John Thomas and other well-known jazz musicians.

Some of the hardest swinging LPs of the hard bop era featured two-tenor frontlines, and the Ziad Jazz Quartet — with guest tenor and Berklee College of Music grad Danny Walsh — will see what kind of massive grooves they can generate during this concert with their own version. Walsh is regarded as one of the most gifted and versatile recording artists in the jazz and R&B circuits, and has performed with everyone from Greg Allman and Aerosmith to Phil Woods and the Mingus Dynasty Big Band.

The plethora of tenor players in the relatively small confines of the 1950s and 1960s New York City jazz scene made many of these collaborations practically inevitable. Most of them were little more than improvised jams on familiar themes, similar to the after-hours “cutting sessions” that often took place once the venue’s doors shut. Take the 1960-61 recordings of the Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis and Johnny Griffin Quintet, or the only recorded Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane meeting, the title track from Tenor Madness (on this concert's setlist), or the excellent Blowin’ In From Chicago (1957) date featuring Clifford Jordan and John Gilmore, one of the rare times the latter was out of Sun Ra’s orbit.

The best thing about these tenor sessions is getting to hear the differences in approach in real time. Players will showcase their balladry on the slower numbers, and on the up-tempo swingers they’ll engage in some high-velocity “trading fours,” where each saxophonist takes four quick bars to make a solo statement that the other answers. On a track such as John Coltrane’s quick-footed Grand Central (featured during this concert), that can make for some of the best and most heated improvisations going.

The Noel Freidline Trio joins Bobby Ryder in a tribute to Neil Diamond. 

The Noel Freidline Quartet performs for the Gaston Concert Association.  Featuring saxophonist Juan Rollan, bassist Ron Brendle and drummer Al Sergel.

Noel Freidline is playing the opening night of the Charlotte performances of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical."

Information on the show can be found here.

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they play the best of Dave Brubeck, Ahmad Jamal, Oscar Peterson and George Shearing.  Featuring saxophonist Juan Rollan, bassist Ron Brendle and drummer Al Sergel.

It is highly recommended that you get reservations in advance at The Jazz Corner.

Join the Noel Freidline Quartet as they play the best of Dave Brubeck, Ahmad Jamal, Oscar Peterson and George Shearing.  Featuring saxophonist Juan Rollan, bassist Ron Brendle and drummer Al Sergel.

It is highly recommended that you get reservations in advance at The Jazz Corner. 

CMA Jazz on Main is excited to announce that it will close out its second full season with a return performance by jazz saxophonist and flutist Nelson Rangell.

Jazziz magazine writes that Nelson Rangell is "an artist of depth, a master of song, and an improviser non pareil." The Times of London notes "his extraordinary facility on a range of instruments and his undoubted virtuosity," adding that Nelson is "one of fusion's most accomplished exponents."

Such praise is a confirmation of what contemporary jazz fans have known since the Denver based saxophonist emerged in the late 80s: that Rangell is one of the most exciting and diverse performers in the genre, equally adept at soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone, as well as being a genuine virtuoso on flute and piccolo.

Back by popular demand, Nelson Rangell rejoins the Noel Freidline Trio for an amazing evening of contemporary and straight ahead jazz.

If the 1964 LP Getz/Gilberto didn’t exactly kick-start the bossa nova craze, it certainly served as its centerpiece. Getz/Gilberto brought together two bossa nova (literally “new thing”) innovators — guitarist/singer João Gilberto and composer/pianist Antonio Carlos Jobim – and cool jazz saxophone legend Stan Getz. The cross-culture fit resulted in record sales for a jazz album at the time. (Sales were egged on by the seductive whisper of Astrud Gilberto — João’s wife — on the single The Girl From Ipanema, which remains ubiquitous in popular culture a half century later.)

That Getz/Gilberto magic and other Brazilian jazz standards will be performed during the March 4 Jazz at the Bechtler concerts when the Ziad Jazz Quartet, featuring percussionist Jim Brock and flutist Tim Gordon, explore some of the best Brazilian-flavored jazz from the era.

Jobim is well-represented with the track A Partidade, which is only fitting for a songwriter whose tunes were recorded by jazz giants from Coleman Hawkins, Oscar Peterson and Herbie Hancock to Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. Also on the setlist are Partido Alto, a variation on the samba, and Anatelio (The Happy People) the centerpiece of a live 1971 LP recorded by Cannonball Adderly and written by Brazilian jazz drummer and percussionist Airto Moreira.

Back for a return engagement, the popular Ziad Jazz Quartet will present a program of Gypsy Jazz and other jazz genres. Gypsy Jazz is said to have been originated by Django Reinhardt in Paris in the 1930s. With Ziad Rabie on saxophone, Rick Dior on drums, Ron Brendle on bass, and Noel Freidline on piano, the group will also feature Andy Page on guitar and Matt Williams on violin. Since 2010, the quartet has been playing monthly at the hugely popular “Jazz at the Bechtler” series, held in the museum lobby. You’ll be wowed by the spontaneity, electricity, and fabulous vibe of this top-notch group.

Click here for a downloadable brochure of the entire concert series:  http://images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2107/ACCSTrifold201516.pdf

Show details to be updated soon!

Call 704-752-8080 after 5pm for reservations.

The Department of Music presents the Faculty & Friends Concert Series, featuring the Faculty Jazz Quintet: Will Campbell (saxophone), Mike Hackett (trumpet), Noel Freidline (piano), Ron Brendle (bass), and Rick Dior (percussion).

Perhaps no other music genre tells us more about love in all its varied shades than jazz. From its openly sentimental ballads and teary torch songs to its fiery declarations of new love and playful odes to significant others, jazz numbers hit all the marks. In its sixth year at the Bechtler, the Ziad Jazz Quartet – with guest vocalist Toni Tupponce – knows well how to evoke the moods of love for Valentine’s Day.

Bring your sweetie February 5 and celebrate an early Valentine's Day with jazzy love songs. Things are bound to get heated as Tupponce, voted “sexiest voice in Charlotte” by Charlotte magazine in 2006, croons romantic tunes.

It is HIGHLY SUGGESTED to make reservations in advance.  The Jazz Corner tends to sell out well in advance. 

Maria~Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. Maria Howell is much more. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

Howell’s signature film performance as the choir soloist in the movie “The Color Purple” was quoted by one critic as being “one of the film’s most stirring moments!” Her rendition of “God Is Trying to Tell You Something” was memorable for all who saw it, but the offerings of the all-grown-up Maria are truly unforgettable, eliciting more stirring moments, one after another.

Some may be inspired to call her best kept secret, but anyone who leaves an imprint on every medium from radio, stage and television to the Hollywood screen is hardly incognito. Howell’s talent has been featured as a nightclub singer “Goldie”, in “The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”, produced by George Lucas (Chicago and NY episodes, which also features veteran actor Keith David). Other roles on the small screen include “Linda”, where she plays alongside master performers Richard Thomas (The Waltons) and Virginia Madsen (Sideways)…Visit Maria at mariahowell.com

Noel~Noel Freidline is a 1991 graduate of the University of North Florida, BA in Music (magna cum laude). A pianist, vocalist, writer and arranger, Noel has been the leader of his own group since 1991.

In addition to his work with the NFQ, Noel performs regularly with the Charlotte Symphony, both as a featured artist and ensemble member. Noel also performs regularly with touring Broadway shows, most recently “Jersey Boys,” “Bring It On,” “Dream Girls,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “White Christmas,” “Les Miserable,” and “Wicked.” With the NFQ Noel has opened for such diverse artists as Tony Bennett, saxophonist David Sanborn, Kenny G, Rosemary Clooney, pianist Dave Brubeck, vocalist Layla Hathaway, jazz legend Roy Ayers, and vocalist Jennifer Holliday.

Noel was named Best Jazz Musician by Charlotte Magazine in 2006 and in 2009 and was named “Best Musical Director” by the Metrolina Theatre Association of the Carolinas. A dilettante of pop culture, Noel has become a popular lecturer for theatres and museums, creating and presenting multi-media presentations on everything from Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons to Mel Brooks. In 2011 Freidline was chosen for the Blumenthal Performing Arts Association (Charlotte, NC) Center Stage Award in recognition of his excellence in service to the arts.

For more on Noel visit www.noelfreidline.com

It is HIGHLY SUGGESTED to make reservations in advance.  The Jazz Corner tends to sell out well in advance. 

Maria~Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. Maria Howell is much more. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

Howell’s signature film performance as the choir soloist in the movie “The Color Purple” was quoted by one critic as being “one of the film’s most stirring moments!” Her rendition of “God Is Trying to Tell You Something” was memorable for all who saw it, but the offerings of the all-grown-up Maria are truly unforgettable, eliciting more stirring moments, one after another.

Some may be inspired to call her best kept secret, but anyone who leaves an imprint on every medium from radio, stage and television to the Hollywood screen is hardly incognito. Howell’s talent has been featured as a nightclub singer “Goldie”, in “The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”, produced by George Lucas (Chicago and NY episodes, which also features veteran actor Keith David). Other roles on the small screen include “Linda”, where she plays alongside master performers Richard Thomas (The Waltons) and Virginia Madsen (Sideways)…Visit Maria at mariahowell.com

Noel~Noel Freidline is a 1991 graduate of the University of North Florida, BA in Music (magna cum laude). A pianist, vocalist, writer and arranger, Noel has been the leader of his own group since 1991.

In addition to his work with the NFQ, Noel performs regularly with the Charlotte Symphony, both as a featured artist and ensemble member. Noel also performs regularly with touring Broadway shows, most recently “Jersey Boys,” “Bring It On,” “Dream Girls,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “White Christmas,” “Les Miserable,” and “Wicked.” With the NFQ Noel has opened for such diverse artists as Tony Bennett, saxophonist David Sanborn, Kenny G, Rosemary Clooney, pianist Dave Brubeck, vocalist Layla Hathaway, jazz legend Roy Ayers, and vocalist Jennifer Holliday.

Noel was named Best Jazz Musician by Charlotte Magazine in 2006 and in 2009 and was named “Best Musical Director” by the Metrolina Theatre Association of the Carolinas. A dilettante of pop culture, Noel has become a popular lecturer for theatres and museums, creating and presenting multi-media presentations on everything from Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons to Mel Brooks. In 2011 Freidline was chosen for the Blumenthal Performing Arts Association (Charlotte, NC) Center Stage Award in recognition of his excellence in service to the arts.

For more on Noel visit www.noelfreidline.com

Best known for her role as the choir soloist in the 1985 Oscar-nominated film The Color Purple, Maria Howell is a captivating, dynamic performer, combining an endearing stage presence with a musicality rarely heard in vocalists.  She has an innate ability to establish “instant rapport” with an audience.  A Gastonia, NC native, and now residing in Los Angeles, Howell has been known to leave audiences mesmerized with her powerful, sultry, smooth voice, mixing R&B, gospel and soul into her renditions of jazz classics.

As an actress Howell has appeared in the feature films “The Color Purple,” “The Hunger Games” “The Blind Side” as well TV’s “Revolution” and “Devious Maids.”  As a vocalist Maria has shared the stage with Ray Charles, Najee, George Howard, Ramsey Lewis, George Benson, Nancy Wilson, and Marvin Hamlisch among others.

Honoring some of her favorite “Ladies of Song” Howell will be joined by the Noel Freidline Trio as she pays tribute to such legends as Nancy Wilson, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Carole King and Aretha Franklin.

Call 704-752-8080 for reservations.

Best known for her role as the choir soloist in the 1985 Oscar-nominated film The Color Purple, Maria Howell is a captivating, dynamic performer, combining an endearing stage presence with a musicality rarely heard in vocalists.  She has an innate ability to establish “instant rapport” with an audience. A Gastonia, NC native, Howell has been known to leave audiences mesmerized with her powerful, sultry, smooth voice, mixing R&B, gospel and soul into her renditions of jazz classics.

Howell has shared the stage with Ray Charles, Najee, George Howard, Ramsey Lewis, George Benson, Nancy Wilson, and Marvin Hamlisch among others. 

Honoring some of her favorite “Ladies of Song” Howell will be joined by the Noel Freidline Quartet as she pays tribute to such legends as Nancy Wilson, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Carole King and Aretha Franklin. 

Noel Freidline added, “I couldn’t be more excited about introducing one of my favorite performers of all time to the Jazz on Main audience. This will be a stellar pairing of a great artist with a great audience.” 

Noel Freidline is the band leader/ keyboardist /arranger for this production. 

Based on the SUPERMAN® comic strip, with music by Charles Strouse (Annie, Bye-Bye Birdie) and lyrics by Lee Adams, It’s a Bird … It’s a Plane … It’s Superman is a musical comedy about the trials and tribulations of Clark Kent/Superman, his relationship with Lois Lane, and his struggle to defeat evil M.I.T. Professor Dr. Abner Sedgwick. Presented in co-production with the Department of Theatre, the Department of Music, and theatre alumni.

Noel Freidline is the band leader/ keyboardist /arranger for this production. 

Based on the SUPERMAN® comic strip, with music by Charles Strouse (Annie, Bye-Bye Birdie) and lyrics by Lee Adams, It’s a Bird … It’s a Plane … It’s Superman is a musical comedy about the trials and tribulations of Clark Kent/Superman, his relationship with Lois Lane, and his struggle to defeat evil M.I.T. Professor Dr. Abner Sedgwick. Presented in co-production with the Department of Theatre, the Department of Music, and theatre alumni.

Based on the SUPERMAN® comic strip, with music by Charles Strouse (Annie, Bye-Bye Birdie) and lyrics by Lee Adams, It’s a Bird … It’s a Plane … It’s Superman is a musical comedy about the trials and tribulations of Clark Kent/Superman, his relationship with Lois Lane, and his struggle to defeat evil M.I.T. Professor Dr. Abner Sedgwick. Presented in co-production with the Department of Theatre, the Department of Music, and theatre alumni.

Noel Freidline is the band leader/ keyboardist /arranger for this production. 

Based on the SUPERMAN® comic strip, with music by Charles Strouse (Annie, Bye-Bye Birdie) and lyrics by Lee Adams, It’s a Bird … It’s a Plane … It’s Superman is a musical comedy about the trials and tribulations of Clark Kent/Superman, his relationship with Lois Lane, and his struggle to defeat evil M.I.T. Professor Dr. Abner Sedgwick. Presented in co-production with the Department of Theatre, the Department of Music, and theatre alumni.

It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance.  Both shows tend to sell out. 

All the merriment of the season is over and it's back to the same old routine. Blah. It's hard not to get the blues so why fight it? Come out and hear the Ziad Jazz Quartet perform post-holiday blues. The song selections include Lee Morgan's Boy What a Night, John Coltrane's Blues to Elvin and Jimmy Heath's A New Blue and All Members. 

The mid-tempo Boy What a Night comes from trumpeter Morgan’s seminal soul jazz LP, The Sidewinder, a 1963 release that wound up cracking the Billboard charts. The relaxed tempo of A New Blue, with its riff of a Thelonius Monk theme, is taken from the 1978 release, Passin’ Thru, the second recording featuring all three Heath brothers. All Members, from Heath’s 1975 recording The Picture of Heath, is a smoking, up-tempo finger-snapper characteristic of the hard bop era.

Blues to Elvin is from Coltrane’s 1960 LP, Coltrane Plays the Blues. As the tenor saxophonist experimented more with his “sheets of sound” approach, critics charged that he was no longer capable of playing the music’s foundational elements – blues or ballads. He answered them on this straight, slow-tempo song in more than convincing fashion.

Noel Freidline joins Hilton Head's Bobby Ryder for a holiday show.  Bobby is an Atlantic City veteran who puts on an incredibly entertaining show.  Check out Bobby Ryder's website.

Join Rick Cline, trombonist Rick Simerly and Noel Freidline as they bring their annual holiday jazz show back to the Olde Hickory Tap Room.

Noel Freidline performs with the Tony Award winning show "Jersey Boys."  This is the 26th time Noel has performed with the show, in the 9th city. 

Get in the holiday spirit with jazzy renditions of seasonal classics. On December 4, the Ziad Jazz Quartet performs Winter Wonderland, Deck the Halls (arranged by Herbie Hancock and Chick Correa), Sleigh Ride, the John Coltrane version of Greensleeves and more.

Jazz at the Bechtler's holiday show has become a hit with folks looking to kick off the season on a sassy musical note. These concerts are expected to sell out so get your tickets early.

Don't miss the dueling piano's of Noel and the AMAZING Martin Lesch. 

Don't miss the dueling pianos of Noel Freidline and the AMAZING Martin Lesch!

MILLIGAN COLLEGE, Tenn. (Nov. 6, 2015) – The Milligan College Jazz Ensemble, directed by Associate Professor of Music Rick Simerly, presents a fall concert on Monday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Milligan’s Mary B. Martin Auditorium located in Seeger Chapel. This event is free and open to the public.

The Milligan Jazz Ensemble consists of Milligan students as well as students and adults from throughout the region. This concert features a variety of styles of jazz as well as the vocal and piano stylings of Noel Freidline, the former house pianist at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas.

“Noel has an incredible ability to entertain audiences,” said Simerly. “He has performed at major jazz festivals throughout the United States and is a performer not to be missed.”

A native of Clearwater, Kansas, Freidline has performed with David Sanborn, Kenny G, Rosemary Clooney, Dave Brubeck, Layla Hathaway, Roy Ayers and Jennifer Holliday. He also has performed with the touring Broadway shows of “Jersey Boys,” “Les Miserables,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “White Christmas” and “Wicked.”  Twice he’s been voted the “Best Jazz Musician” in Charlotte, North Carolina, and he was inducted into the Jacksonville (Florida) Jazz Hall of Fame. Freidline is the artistic director of the Columbia South Carolina series “Jazz on Main” and is a lecturer at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Noel Freidline brings you the best of Classic Vegas! 

Noel Freidline and his band were hand picked by Steve Wynn, and spent three years as a house band at the Bellagio.  Having been together for over 23 years, they sell out shows throughout the Southeast, recently selling out three nights in Hilton Head to standing ovations and encores. 

Written up in People Magazine and USA Today when they performed by special request at the surprise birthday party of actress Julia Roberts, Freidline was recently inducted into the Jacksonville Jazz Hall of Fame (FL).  

Don’t miss the sounds of classic Vegas!  Sinatra, Nat “King” Cole, Nancy Wilson, Etta James, and many more! 

DON'T MISS THIS LAST OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR RENEE EBALAROZA, NOEL FREIDLINE'S MUSICAL PARTNER OF 24 YEARS, ONE LAST TIME BEFORE SHE MOVES TO HAWAII.

Ron Westray is best known for his work as lead trombonist with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra directed by Wynton Marsalis and his collaborations with fellow trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, though he may be better known in the Southeast as a Columbia native.

A favorite son of Columbia, SC, Westray launched his professional performance career in the early 1990s, recording and touring nationally with the Marcus Roberts Septet. He has appeared in concert with such luminaries as Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Stevie Wonder, Benny Carter, Dewey Redman, Roy Haynes, Randy Brecker and a host of other pre-eminent artists. 

In 2009 Ron Westray was named the Oscar Peterson Chair in Jazz Performance at York University, Toronto.  

Joined by the Noel Freidline trio, Ron will bring his expertise as both a performer and composer to a hometown crowd, for what is sure to be an evening to remember! 

So sorry!  SOLD OUT!

From the Bechtler website:

The Ziad Jazz Quartet pays tribute to jazz saxophonist Joe Henderson (1937–2001) during the June 5 Jazz at the Bechtler concerts. Song selections include Inner Urge, Recorda Me and Black Narcissus. 

One of the more distinctive tenor saxophone voices to have emerged during the 1960s, Henderson's rich tone and strong sense of rhythm influenced scores of tenor saxophonists who followed him. The New York described his sound as "shaded, insinuating, full of layers, with quicksilver lines amid careful ballad phrases and short trills." 

Watch Joe Henderson perform Recorda Me in this video. 

PERFORMANCE

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed. 

FOOD AND DRINK

Snacks are provided before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor. 

TICKETS

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are $8 for museum members and $14 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.) 

PARKING

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation. 

MORE INFORMATION

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2014-2015 season lineup.

The Noel Freidline Quintet with vocalist Renee Ebalaroza, saxophonist Juan Rollan, bassist Billy Thornton and drummer Ken Tackett appear at the Breezin' Stage, which is located at the Jacksonville Landing, 2 W. Independent Dr., Jacksonville, FL.  6pm.  Free and open to the public.  You may want to bring your own seating. 

Noel Freidline to emcee the show and perform following the competition with vocalist Renee Ebalaroza & saxophonist Juan Rollan.

from the Jacksonville Jazz Festival website:

The Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition, presented by the City of Jacksonville and Keyboard Connection Pianos & Organs, has been a tradition for more than 30 years. Five finalists, chosen by a selection committee through "blind" judging, will compete for the honor of this award, a cash prize and the chance to perform on the Main Stage during the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.

This internationally renowned competition has attracted finalists from all over the world. Past judges include: Marcus Roberts, Brian Culbertson, Jason Miles, Joey Calderazzo, Lynne Arriale, Dr. John. Per Danielsson, John Thomas and other well known jazz musicians. 

These shows sell out very quickly.  Please make your reservations ASAP.  http://www.thejazzcorner.com/contact/

From the Jazz Corner Website:

Maria~Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. Maria Howell is much more. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

Howell’s signature film performance as the choir soloist in the movie “The Color Purple” was quoted by one critic as being “one of the film’s most stirring moments!” Her rendition of “God Is Trying to Tell You Something” was memorable for all who saw it, but the offerings of the all-grown-up Maria are truly unforgettable, eliciting more stirring moments, one after another.

Some may be inspired to call her best kept secret, but anyone who leaves an imprint on every medium from radio, stage and television to the Hollywood screen is hardly incognito. Howell’s talent has been featured as a nightclub singer “Goldie”, in “The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”, produced by George Lucas (Chicago and NY episodes, which also features veteran actor Keith David). Other roles on the small screen include “Linda”, where she plays alongside master performers Richard Thomas (The Waltons) and Virginia Madsen (Sideways)…Visit Maria at mariahowell.com

Noel~Noel Freidline is a 1991 graduate of the University of North Florida, BA in Music (magna cum laude). A pianist, vocalist, writer and arranger, Noel has been the leader of his own group since 1991.

In addition to his work with the NFQ, Noel performs regularly with the Charlotte Symphony, both as a featured artist and ensemble member. Noel also performs regularly with touring Broadway shows, most recently “Jersey Boys,” “Bring It On,” “Dream Girls,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “White Christmas,” “Les Miserable,” and “Wicked.” With the NFQ Noel has opened for such diverse artists as Tony Bennett, saxophonist David Sanborn, Kenny G, Rosemary Clooney, pianist Dave Brubeck, vocalist Layla Hathaway, jazz legend Roy Ayers, and vocalist Jennifer Holliday.

Noel was named Best Jazz Musician by Charlotte Magazine in 2006 and in 2009 and was named “Best Musical Director” by the Metrolina Theatre Association of the Carolinas. A dilettante of pop culture, Noel has become a popular lecturer for theatres and museums, creating and presenting multi-media presentations on everything from Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons to Mel Brooks. In 2011 Freidline was chosen for the Blumenthal Performing Arts Association (Charlotte, NC) Center Stage Award in recognition of his excellence in service to the arts.

For more on Noel visit www.noelfreidline.com

These shows sell out very quickly.  Please make your reservations ASAP.  http://www.thejazzcorner.com/contact/

From the Jazz Corner Website:

Maria~Mere words can only capture the refrain of her awesome talent. Maria Howell is much more. She is the ballad of beauty and elegance. The melodies flowing from the petite vocalist are truly amazing. While casting a spellbinding smile, she mesmerizes her captive audience with incredible harmonies and rhythms.

Howell’s signature film performance as the choir soloist in the movie “The Color Purple” was quoted by one critic as being “one of the film’s most stirring moments!” Her rendition of “God Is Trying to Tell You Something” was memorable for all who saw it, but the offerings of the all-grown-up Maria are truly unforgettable, eliciting more stirring moments, one after another.

Some may be inspired to call her best kept secret, but anyone who leaves an imprint on every medium from radio, stage and television to the Hollywood screen is hardly incognito. Howell’s talent has been featured as a nightclub singer “Goldie”, in “The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles”, produced by George Lucas (Chicago and NY episodes, which also features veteran actor Keith David). Other roles on the small screen include “Linda”, where she plays alongside master performers Richard Thomas (The Waltons) and Virginia Madsen (Sideways)…Visit Maria at mariahowell.com

Noel~Noel Freidline is a 1991 graduate of the University of North Florida, BA in Music (magna cum laude). A pianist, vocalist, writer and arranger, Noel has been the leader of his own group since 1991.

In addition to his work with the NFQ, Noel performs regularly with the Charlotte Symphony, both as a featured artist and ensemble member. Noel also performs regularly with touring Broadway shows, most recently “Jersey Boys,” “Bring It On,” “Dream Girls,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “White Christmas,” “Les Miserable,” and “Wicked.” With the NFQ Noel has opened for such diverse artists as Tony Bennett, saxophonist David Sanborn, Kenny G, Rosemary Clooney, pianist Dave Brubeck, vocalist Layla Hathaway, jazz legend Roy Ayers, and vocalist Jennifer Holliday.

Noel was named Best Jazz Musician by Charlotte Magazine in 2006 and in 2009 and was named “Best Musical Director” by the Metrolina Theatre Association of the Carolinas. A dilettante of pop culture, Noel has become a popular lecturer for theatres and museums, creating and presenting multi-media presentations on everything from Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons to Mel Brooks. In 2011 Freidline was chosen for the Blumenthal Performing Arts Association (Charlotte, NC) Center Stage Award in recognition of his excellence in service to the arts.

For more on Noel visit www.noelfreidline.com

From the event website:

It is a bit of a coincidence that we’re hosting  a weekend full of art events just after being named Charlotte’s  Best Artsy ‘hood by Charlotte Magazine. Pecha Kucha will kick things off on Thursday, Carolinas Got Art will be the highlight of the Friday Gallery Crawl and then…

South End’s signature arts festival will be held Saturday, May 2nd with events throughout the day!  

From 12-6:00pm the Rail Trail will come alive with music, artists, retailers and all sorts of interesting things from BMX to spoken word and jazz.

We’ve got 25 independent artists lined up – selling original works of art at all price points. Lots of other great retailers will be out and about too, selling handmade goods ranging from jewelry, soap, birdhouses and other crafty wares. A nice lineup of fashion trucks will have the latest from the casual wear runway, and of course, there will be beer.

To celebrate the 5th anniversary of Jazz at the Bechtler, the museum presents a Fan Favorites concert May 1. The Ziad Jazz Quartet will perform songs requested most often by audience members over the past five years such as What Is This Thing Called Love, Caravan, The Champ, Desafinado, Round Midnight, Seven Steps to Heaven and more.

Special performance by sculptor Peter Rubino

Artist Peter Rubino will perform an "extreme sculpting" event during the 6 p.m. Jazz at the Bechtler concert. Rubino will speed sculpt a bust of one of the seminal figures of mid-century jazz. Watch some of Rubino's previous speed sculpting performances in this video.

Rubino's large-scale works include Mother of All Life, a 10-foot-tall monument that graces the Boyko Research Center in Israel and Angel, a 35-foot-tall figure created for the Walt Disney Company. Rubino teaches workshops in the U.S. and Italy and has sculpted busts of President Barack Obama, baseball legend Lou Gehrig and actor David Canary among other famous faces.

Performance

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Snacks are provided before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are $8 for museum members and $14 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2014-2015 season lineup.

Join Noel Freidline as he plays with vocalist Maria Howell during her Los Angeles debut!

In 1938 Benny Goodman took his orchestra into Carnegie Hall, becoming the first jazz group to ever perform in the famous theatre.  Featuring members of both the Duke Ellington and Count Basie orchestra’s alongside his own band, he helped elevate the status of swing music.  Twenty years later Duke Ellington and his orchestra would cause a near riot at the Newport Jazz Festival with a charismatic performance that was credited with revitalizing Duke’s career.  Both of these performances are considered amongst the greatest jazz concerts of all time.

Whether at the height of its popularity or considered a classic from yesteryear, with its infectious beat and unforgettable melodies swing music has always had the ability to move audiences.

On April 17^th Jazz On Main will close out its season with a “Tribute to the Swing Bands.”  Join artistic director Noel Freidline as he augments his trio with a four-horn section to deliver music from such swing luminaries as Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Glen Miller, Count Basie, Cab Calloway, and the Dorsey Brothers. 

“Oscar, Ahmad & George: Three Legends of Piano Jazz”

One was knighted by the Queen of England, another was named a Living Jazz Legend by the Kennedy Center, and another won eight Grammy Awards and was referred to as the “Maharaja of the keyboard” by Duke Ellington.  There is no shortage of world-class jazz pianists, but the names George Shearing, Ahmad Jamal and Oscar Peterson stand out amongst the best.  Each developed a signature sound in the 1950’s that would become a point of reference.  Their unique styles would go on to heavily influence countless musicians that would follow. 

The Noel Freidline Trio with special guest saxophonist Juan Rollan presents an evening of music made famous by Shearing, Jamal and Peterson including such classics as  “Lullaby of Birdland,” “So Rare,” “Poinciana,” “But Not for Me,” “Night Train” and “Band Call.”   

Come celebrate the New Year with us as we celebrate our 12th New Year's Eve at the legendary Jazz Corner.

“Celebrating the Great American Songbook”

From the 1920’s through the 1950’s composers with names such as George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, and Richard Rodgers composed some of the most enduring melodies of the last 150 years. 

Their body of work has become known as the Great American Songbook.  It was the music that gave hope to a nation in the grips of the Great Depression and provided a soundtrack for when the GI’s left for war and came home in peace.  A country was defended, families were raised and a nation was built to these songs. 

Presented in conjunction with “Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera,” an exhibit highlighting the creative process of the beloved American illustrator Norman Rockwell, “Celebrating the Great American Songbook” will feature the Noel Freidline Quintet with vocalist Renee Ebalaroza, back by popular demand.  Repertoire for the evening will include works by the great American songwriters as well as songs recorded by vocalists such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme and Bing Crosby. 

It will be nothing short of a melodic melting pot when the Ziad Jazz Quartet explores the diverse blend of Cuban, Spanish and African sounds that make up the Latin jazz genre.

Introduced in the U.S. during the 1950s, Latin jazz fuses Afro-Caribbean and Pan-American rhythms with the elevated harmonic structure and instrumental virtuosity of jazz. The music is recognized for its high energy sound and powerful drum beats. The genre was revolutionized by the likes of Tito Puente, who was known for putting a big band spin on traditional Latin dances.

The Ziad Jazz Quartet will be joined by guest performers Jim Brock (percussion) and Jon Thornton (trumpet) to perform songs by Latin jazz greats such as Chick Corea, Sergio Mendes, Michel Camilo, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Chucho Valdez and Paquito D’Rivera.

Brock (shown above) is an innovator in the world of drums and percussion. Over the past 50 years, he has performed on hundreds of recordings with artists such as Joe Walsh, Joan Baez, Kathy Mattea, Joe Cocker and Janis Ian and has appeared on The Tonight Show, A Prairie Home Companion, Good Morning America and MTV. He is the recipient of the prestigious Telly award and was nominated for an Emmy award.

Performance

Concerts are performed by the Ziad Jazz Quartet at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Snacks are provided before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are $8 for museum members and $14 for non-members.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-48#sthash.7S82NUq6.dpuf

The NOEL FREIDLINE Quintet featuring RENEE EBALAROZA

Celebrating the Elegant Era of Jazz~Music from the Great American Songbook

Presented by THE JUNIOR JAZZ FOUNDATION & DRIVING YOUNG AMERICA 

8:00 PM

Hear the Ziad Jazz Quartet perform a tribute to one of history’s most iconic jazz architects, Wayne Shorter. With a career spanning six decades and countless jazz standards, Shorter, 80, continues to dazzle audiences with improvisational genius and unparalleled playing on tenor and soprano saxophone. He's been described by fellow jazz artist Herbie Hancock as being able to "synthesize all the history of jazz into a very special, very alive musical expression."

Shorter learned bebop as a young artist in cutting contests with Sonny Stitt and Sonny Rollins. He joined Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers in the 1950s, and was a central part of the Miles Davis quintet in the 1960s. In 1970, Shorter co-founded what would become the most influential fusion jazz band of the decade, the Weather Report. Shorter formed his own group in 1986 and in 1989 scored a hit on the rock charts, playing the sax solo on Don Henley's The End of the Innocence. 

The Ziad Jazz Quartet will perform Shorter classics such as Virgo, Black Nile, Footprints and Speak No Evil.

Performance

Concerts are performed by the Ziad Jazz Quartet at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Snacks are provided before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor. 

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are $8 for museum members and $14 for non-members.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-47#sthash.UfNpPPwf.dpuf

Noel Freidline performs with the Jon Metzger Quartet, featuring vibraphonist Jon Metzger, bassist Ron Brendle and drummer Rick Dior.

An Evening with Nelson Rangell

Jazz on Main is excited to announce that it will kick off its season with a performance by jazz saxophonist and flutist Nelson Rangell.

Jazziz magazine writes that Nelson Rangell is "an artist of depth, a master of song, and an improviser non pareil." The Times of London notes "his extraordinary facility on a range of instruments and his undoubted virtuosity," adding that Nelson is "one of fusion's most accomplished exponents."

Such praise is a confirmation of what contemporary jazz fans have known since the Denver based saxophonist emerged in the late 80s: that Rangell is one of the most exciting and diverse performers in the genre, equally adept at soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone, as well as being a genuine virtuoso on flute and piccolo.

Nelson Rangell will join the Noel Freidline Trio for an amazing evening of contemporary and straight ahead jazz.

One was knighted by the Queen of England, another was named a Living Jazz Legend by the Kennedy Center, and another won eight Grammy Awards and was referred to as the “Maharaja of the keyboard” by Duke Ellington.  There is no shortage of world-class jazz pianists, but the names George Shearing, Ahmad Jamal and Oscar Peterson stand out amongst the best.  Each developed a signature sound in the 1950’s that would become a point of reference.  Their unique styles would go on to heavily influence countless musicians that would follow. 

The Ziad Jazz Quartet featuring pianist Noel Freidline presents an evening of music made famous by Shearing, Jamal and Peterson including such classics as  “Lullaby of Birdland,” “So Rare,” “Poinciana,” “But Not for Me,” “Night Train” and “Band Call.”   

“A Tribute to Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel”

The great American songwriters include names such as George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, and Cole Porter.   These men created the musical fabric for the Great American Songbook and defined the melodic landscape from the 1920’s through the 1940’s. 

The second generation of great American songwriters learned well from their musical fathers and picked up where they left off. Henry Mancini, Johnny Mandel and Burt Bacharach helped define the musical soundtrack of the 1950’s through the 1960’s.  These “sons” of the great American songwriters were amazingly prolific and diverse, lending their talents to work under their own names as well as creating the music behind countless other performers such as Tony Bennett, Dionne Warwick, Herb Alpert and Tom Jones and movie soundtracks such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” and “M*A*S*H.”  

The Noel Freidline Quartet featuring trumpeter/vocalist Jon Thornton will present an evening of music from the vast repertoires of Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel.  Songs featured will include:  “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head,” “This Guy’s In Love With You,” “Moon River,” “Mr. Lucky,” “The Shadow of Your Smile,” & “Suicide is Painless (Theme from M*A*S*H)”

“A Tribute to Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel”

The great American songwriters include names such as George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, and Cole Porter.   These men created the musical fabric for the Great American Songbook and defined the melodic landscape from the 1920’s through the 1940’s. 

The second generation of great American songwriters learned well from their musical fathers and picked up where they left off. Henry Mancini, Johnny Mandel and Burt Bacharach helped define the musical soundtrack of the 1950’s through the 1960’s.  These “sons” of the great American songwriters were amazingly prolific and diverse, lending their talents to work under their own names as well as creating the music behind countless other performers such as Tony Bennett, Dionne Warwick, Herb Alpert and Tom Jones and movie soundtracks such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” and “M*A*S*H.”  

The Noel Freidline Quartet featuring trumpeter/vocalist Jon Thornton will present an evening of music from the vast repertoires of Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel.  Songs featured will include:  “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head,” “This Guy’s In Love With You,” “Moon River,” “Mr. Lucky,” “The Shadow of Your Smile,” & “Suicide is Painless (Theme from M*A*S*H)”

JAZZ FOR ALL AGES, a benefit for the Hilton Head Junior Jazz Foundation, is an evening supporting Jazz Preservation & Education. Hear the Junior Jazz Foundation "Rising Stars;" Bob Masteller's Jazz Corner Quintet featuring Legendary Vocalist Gina Rene, and The Noel Freidline Quartet Honors "Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel." All proceeds to benefit the Junior Jazz Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. The full schedule includes:

5:30-6:30 Musician Clinic with World-Renowned Pianist & Composer Noel Freidline

7:00-7:45 Junior Jazz Foundation "Rising Stars"

8:00-8:45 Bob Masteller's Jazz Corner Quintet featuring Legendary Vocalist Gina Rene

9:00-10:00 The Noel Freidline Quartet Honors "Bacharach, Mancini & Mandel"

Noel Freidline is honored to be the summer director of The Lake Norman Big Band, a 17-piece big band established in 1998.

The Lake Norman Big Band's musical home is the Finish Line Restaurant and Lounge.  This venue is located at 125 Morlake Drive, Mooresville, NC. in George Pappas' Victory Lanes.  The concert/dance area is separated from the bowling alley by glass walls so the sound from the lanes does not disrupt our music. 

All shows are held on the third Monday of each month from 7:00 - 9:00 PM (approx).  Dinner seating is available at booths, regular tables and high tops.  Limited seating is also available at the bar.  Reservations may be made by calling the Finish Line at 704-664-2695.  Those reservations are held by a charge of $15 per person.  Of this fee, $5 is a cover charge.  Upon your arrival at the venue, you will receive a $10 credit per person to apply to food and drink.  Any remaining seats are available on a first come/first served basis.

Please join us the 2nd Sunday of each month during the months of April through October 2014 from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. General Admission is $20 for non-members, $5 for students and $75 for Individual Annual Memberships. A pre-set entree menu is available at our concerts and you may obtain a copy of the menu from our “monthly email newsletter” : WellspBR@Gmail.com

The Ziad Jazz Quartet plays tribute to Freddie Hubbard during the August 1 Jazz at the Bechtler concerts. Song selections will include Red Clay, Birdlike and Crisis.

In the pantheon of jazz trumpeters, Hubbard (1938-2008) stands as one of the boldest and most inventive artists of the bop, hard-bop and post-bop eras. Although influenced by titans such as Miles Davis and Clifford Brown, Hubbard ultimately forged his own unique sound – a careful balance of bravado and subtlety that fueled more than 50 solo recordings and countless collaborations with some of the most prominent jazz artists of his era. Down Beat magazine described him as “the most powerful and prolific trumpeter in jazz.”

Hear Hubbard play Open Sesame here. One of Hubbard's last recorded interviews was with with NPR. Listen here.

Cancelled due to expected inclement weather!  Please come see us next week. 

Noel Freidline is honored to be the summer director of The Lake Norman Big Band, a 17-piece big band established in 1998.

The Lake Norman Big Band's musical home is the Finish Line Restaurant and Lounge.  This venue is located at 125 Morlake Drive, Mooresville, NC. in George Pappas' Victory Lanes.  The concert/dance area is separated from the bowling alley by glass walls so the sound from the lanes does not disrupt our music. 

All shows are held on the third Monday of each month from 7:00 - 9:00 PM (approx).  Dinner seating is available at booths, regular tables and high tops.  Limited seating is also available at the bar.  Reservations may be made by calling the Finish Line at 704-664-2695.  Those reservations are held by a charge of $15 per person.  Of this fee, $5 is a cover charge.  Upon your arrival at the venue, you will receive a $10 credit per person to apply to food and drink.  Any remaining seats are available on a first come/first served basis.

Please make reservation in advance as the Jazz Corner tends to sell out. 

Celebrate the 4th of July with Jazz at the Bechtler. The museum presents a special two-night engagement with vocalist Maria Howell on July 4 and 5. Howell will perform with the Ziad Jazz Quartet.

Best known for her role as the choir soloist in the 1985 Oscar-nominated film The Color Purple, Howell has shared the stage with Ray Charles, Najee, George Howard, Ramsey Lewis, George Benson, Nancy Wilson, Marvin Hamlisch, Will Downing and Babyface among others. She considers jazz her favorite musical genre. "Jazz has kept me from wondering too far into the sea of uncertainty," Howell said. "I feel more at home in this world of beautiful melodies."

Howell, a Gastonia native, has been known to leave audiences mesmerized with her powerful, sultry, smooth voice, mixing R&B, gospel and soul into her renditions of jazz classics.

As an actress, she has appeared in Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls, Meet the Browns and House of Payne. Other TV credits include Revolution, Army Wives, Vampire Diaries and Necessary Roughness. Her films include The Blind Side and What to Expect When You're Expecting. Howell's most recent film project was the role of Seeder in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

Celebrate the 4th of July with Jazz at the Bechtler. The museum presents a special two-night engagement with vocalist Maria Howell on July 4 and 5. Howell will perform with the Ziad Jazz Quartet.

Best known for her role as the choir soloist in the 1985 Oscar-nominated film The Color Purple, Howell has shared the stage with Ray Charles, Najee, George Howard, Ramsey Lewis, George Benson, Nancy Wilson, Marvin Hamlisch, Will Downing and Babyface among others. She considers jazz her favorite musical genre. "Jazz has kept me from wondering too far into the sea of uncertainty," Howell said. "I feel more at home in this world of beautiful melodies."

Howell, a Gastonia native, has been known to leave audiences mesmerized with her powerful, sultry, smooth voice, mixing R&B, gospel and soul into her renditions of jazz classics.

As an actress, she has appeared in Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls, Meet the Browns and House of Payne. Other TV credits include Revolution, Army Wives, Vampire Diaries and Necessary Roughness. Her films include The Blind Side and What to Expect When You're Expecting. Howell's most recent film project was the role of Seeder in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

Join us for the new 6th & North Tryon Center City Jazz Series.  This new series happens every Wednesday from 11:30 - 1:30 and will feature various artist from around the region.  Bring your lunch or enjoy food and drink available from lunch trucks brought in especially for the event. 

This is an amazing show that features some of the best musicians and performers in the Southeast and beyond doing an all-Beatles show.  The amazing Steve Stoeckel and I will collaborating for the first time on "Two of Us," one of my favorite songs from The Beatles album "Abbey Road." 

The Ziad Jazz Quartet pays tribute to virtuoso bassist/composer/pianist Charles Mingus during the June 6 Jazz at the Bechtler concerts.

Mingus (1922-1979) was known for his eclectic blend of gospel, jazz and classical styles. His early influences came from church choirs and the sounds of Duke Ellington on the radio, and were later followed by formal studies in trombone, bass and composition. In the 1940s Mingus toured with legends Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory and Lionel Hampton, eventually playing and recording with Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington himself. After settling in New York, Mingus formed an experimental musicians' group called the Jazz Workshop for young composers.

Mingus recorded more than 100 albums, which illuminated his creative and diverse avant-garde music. His influential albums of the 1950s include Pithecanthropus Erectus, The Clown, Tijuana Moods, Mingus Ah Aum and Mingus Dynasty. The New Yorker wrote of Mingus, "For sheer melodic and rhythmic and structural originality, his compositions may equal anything written in western music in the twentieth century."

Hear selections via NPR from a rare performance of Mingus's groundbreaking jazz symphony Epitaph.

Performances

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Light bites are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery for dinner before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $35" three course prix fixe menu. Ask server for details.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2013-2014 season lineup.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-41#sthash.Sg2Nk2Ms.dpuf

Jazz at the Bechtler

LOCATION: LOBBY

JUNE 6

Buy Tickets

The Ziad Jazz Quartet pays tribute to virtuoso bassist/composer/pianist Charles Mingus during the June 6 Jazz at the Bechtler concerts.

Mingus (1922-1979) was known for his eclectic blend of gospel, jazz and classical styles. His early influences came from church choirs and the sounds of Duke Ellington on the radio, and were later followed by formal studies in trombone, bass and composition. In the 1940s Mingus toured with legends Louis Armstrong, Kid Ory and Lionel Hampton, eventually playing and recording with Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington himself. After settling in New York, Mingus formed an experimental musicians' group called the Jazz Workshop for young composers.

Mingus recorded more than 100 albums, which illuminated his creative and diverse avant-garde music. His influential albums of the 1950s include Pithecanthropus Erectus, The Clown, Tijuana Moods, Mingus Ah Aum and Mingus Dynasty. The New Yorker wrote of Mingus, "For sheer melodic and rhythmic and structural originality, his compositions may equal anything written in western music in the twentieth century."

Hear selections via NPR from a rare performance of Mingus's groundbreaking jazz symphony Epitaph.

Performances

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Light bites are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

 Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery for dinner before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $35" three course prix fixe menu. Ask server for details.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2013-2014 season lineup.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-41#sthash.Sg2Nk2Ms.dpuf

Come check us out at the greatest jazz club in the state of Florida!  Heidi's is the best!

Noel Freidline emcee's the 2014 Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition held in conjunction with the Jacksonville Jazz Festival.  In addition he will perform following the competition with vocalist Renee Ebalaroza, saxophonist Juan Rollan, bassist Dennis Marks and drummer Danny Gottlieb. 

Please see the Jazz Corner website for more info

Please see the Jazz Corner website for additional info

Jazz at the Bechtler

LOCATION: LOBBY

MAY 2

Buy Tickets

Described as “one of the most exciting and consistently creative trombonists in jazz today,” Rick Simerly joins the Ziad Jazz Quartet May 2 as the guest musician for the monthly Jazz at the Bechtler concerts.

Through his performances and recordings with a variety of bands and internationally renowned jazz musicians, Simerly has made a mark on the music scene as a recognized jazz performer. As an educator and clinician, he travels throughout the United States conducting clinics, workshops and performing concerts. He has been referred to as "a rare combination of a world-class performer and teacher."

Simerly has played with jazz greats such as James Moody, Slide Hampton and John Faddis, to name only a few, in addition to performing in the bands of Tommy Dorsey, Woody Herman, Charlie Spivak and Nelson Riddle. In addition, he has toured and performed with Frank Sinatra, Jr., Lou Rawls, Vic Damone, Bob Hope and Danny Thomas as well as The O'Jays, Gladys Knight, The Temptations, The Spinners, The Commodores, and The Four Tops.

Performance

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Appetizers from e2 emeril’s eatery are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $30" three course pre fixe menu. Ask server for details.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2013-2014 season lineup.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-40#sthash.fN0B3jpS.dpuf

East Meets West: Jazz Under the Influence of the Orient!

Friday, April 18, 2014

Jazz has always pulled inspiration from every corner of the globe. On April 18th Jazz at the Museum and the Noel Freidline Quartet travels to the farthest corner of the earth, pulling from the rich tradition of the Far East. "East Meets West" will explore jazz under the influence of the Orient. Selections include highlights from Dave Brubeck's "Jazz Impressions of Japan," Horace Silver's "Tokyo Blues," and Duke Ellington's "Far East Suite," as well as Japanese themed compositions by jazz legends Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Django Reinhardt and Cal Tjader.

The evening will also feature jazz interpretations of Japanese classics such as "Sakura," 1963's "Sukiyaki," as well as the classic "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence" by famed Japanese film scorer Ryuichi Sakamoto.

Also featured will be selections from the Eastern inspired "Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio" by Claude Bolling. Charlotte Symphony flautist Amy Orsinger will be the featured soloist on this crossover classic, which combines the best of the classical and jazz world.

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Date: 

April 10, 2014 - April 16, 2014

Location: 

Robinson Hall, Black Box Theater

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Spring Awakening

Buy Tickets

$14 general admission / $9 UNC Charlotte faculty, staff & alumni / $9 senior citizens / $6 all students

Music by Duncan Sheik; Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater

The winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark production is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has exhilarated audiences across the nation since its premiere in 2006.  Join this cast as they navigate teenage self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in a powerful celebration of youth and rebellion. "Broadway may never be the same again!"  - The New York Times

Performance Schedule

Join the Rick Dior Quartet as they present The Brubeck Project, the music of American jazz icon Dave Brubeck.  Rick Dior - drums, Ron Brendle - bass, Noel Freidline - piano and Ziad Rabie - saxophone. 

See the Jazz at the Bechtler website for more info -

http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-42

Jazz at the Bechtler will transport concertgoers to 1930s and '40s France when the Ziad Jazz Quartet performs the music of gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt on April 4. "His playing was at times joyous, fierce and lyrical, and his intensity was such that he's one of the few European musicians to exert a serious influence on the American art form of jazz," wrote Tom Cole in 2010 for NPR.  

Born in Belgium to a family of gypsies and raised on the outskirts of Paris, Reinhardt (1910-1953) is credited with being the innovator of gypsy jazz and for elevating the guitar from a supporting role to a lead player in his vibrant take on early American jazz. Known for its combination of swing articulation and chromatic movement, gypsy jazz has a pulsing, chugging rhythmic drive. This style of music came from Paris in the form of the string band founded by Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli called Le Quintette du Hot Club de France.

Listen to Reinhardt and Grappelli play Minor Swing here.

Performance

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Appetizers from e2 emeril’s eatery are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $30" three course pre fixe menu. Ask server for details.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2013-2014 season lineup.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-42#sthash.LXQvDCBQ.dpuf

See website for show and ticket info

http://www.jerseyboysinfo.com/tour/index.html

This is part of a concert series put on by Providence Baptist Church in celebration of the church's 60th anniversary. 

Please see the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art website for more info -

http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-38

See The Jazz Corner website for more info:

http://www.thejazzcorner.com/calendar-profile.php?ID=2692

For more info please check out The Jazz Corner website:

http://www.thejazzcorner.com/calendar-profile.php?ID=2692

AFTERHOURS JAZZ – Monday, February 10th, 5:00 PM in All Saints' Hall

Best of classic jazz, hors d’oeuvres and libations for working and lounging adults featuring the music of Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, and others.  Charlotte Symphony percussionist Rick Dior on drums, Ziad Rabie on sax, Ron Brendle on bass, and Noel Friedline on piano.

For more info, check out the Jazz at the Bechtler February concert webpage: 

http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-39

Jazz at the Bechtler

LOCATION: LOBBY

FEBRUARY 7

Buy Tickets

Petite powerhouse vocalist Toni Tupponce joins the Ziad Jazz Quartet for the annual Jazz for Lovers concerts February 7.

Bring your sweetie (or find a sweetie here) and celebrate Valentine's Day with jazzy love songs. Things are bound to get heated as Tupponce, voted “sexiest voice in Charlotte” by Charlotte magazine in 2006, croons romantic tunes. Song selections include A Sunday Kind of Love, Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be?), Send in the Clowns and For All We Know.

Performance

Concerts are performed at 6 and 8:15 p.m. Each concert is performed without an intermission in the museum lobby.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for the 6 p.m. show and at 7:45 for the 8:15 show. Seating is first come, first served. Standing room only is available after all seats are claimed.

Food and Drink

Appetizers from e2 emeril’s eatery are sold before and during the concert. The cash bar offers beer, wine and select liquor.

Jazz at the Bechtler attendees who visit e2 emeril's eatery before or after the concert are eligible for the restaurant's "3 for $30" three course pre fixe menu. Ask server for details.

Tickets

Tickets for each concert are sold separately. Tickets are free for museum members and $12 for non-members. Buy tickets (Tickets may also be purchased by phone 704.353.9200 or at the admission desk.)

Parking

Concertgoers receive discounted parking in the Levine Center for the Arts garage. Bring ticket in for validation.

More Information

Visit the Jazz at the Bechtler webpage for the 2013-2014 season lineup.

- See more at: http://bechtler.org/Learn/Events/details/jazz-at-the-bechtler-39#sthash.4oN74VeR.dpuf

The Faculty and Friends Concert Series presents The Faculty Jazz Quintet: Will Campbell, saxophone; Mike Hackett, trumpet; Noel Freidline, piano; Ron Brendle, bass; Rick Dior, drums.

Scott Allen Jarrett, conducting
Oratorio Singers of Charlotte

Tour America musically and visually; see 100+ Ansel Adams photos in sync with the Symphony as it plays Brubeck’s “Ansel Adams: America,” plus music by Duke Ellington, Copland, and more. 
Extras: Live Jazz with the Noel Freidline Trio and a special photo exhibit by The Light Factory

See the Charlotte Symphony website for more info -

http://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/charlotte-symphony-knightsounds-sights-sounds-of-america

Get to Know the Show: Rock of Ages

Jan 23 , 2014 · STAGE DOOR THEATER at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Please join us for an evening Get to Know the Show program at STAGE DOOR THEATER. Musician, composer, and teacher, Noel Freidline, will introduce the musical ROCK OF AGES and will discuss the music of the 1980's.Light refreshments will be served. Please note, members of the production will not be present. RSVP is required. We hope to see you there! Click here to RSVP.

- See more at: http://www.blumenthalarts.org/events-performances/coming-performances/detail/get-to-know-the-show-rock-of-ages#sthash.3xrV9uxA.dpuf