Bryan Carter: Celebrating Bayard Rustin

ABOUT THE CONCERT

Join us in The Appel Room for an unforgettable evening with 2024 Grammy and Tony Award winner Bryan Carter in Celebrating Bayard Rustin. The talented drummer, composer, and vocalist presents the world premiere of his new jazz oratorio "Rustin in Renaissance," a tribute to the influential Civil Rights activist and musician.

Leading the Jazz at Pride Orchestra, Carter takes us on a musical journey featuring powerhouse vocalists Vuyo Sotashe, J. Hoard, Shenel Johns, and Georgia Heers as they perform songs ranging from Billy Strayhorn to Shania Twain, blending various eras and styles in a performance that culminates in the world premiere of "Rustin in Renaissance.” Enjoy a night of vibrant music as we pay homage to an underappreciated figure in American history and celebrate Rustin's remarkable legacy!

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Grammy Award-winning drummer and bandleader Bryan Carter leading his Jazz at Pride Orchestra 
• Featuring powerhouse vocalists Vuyo Sotashe, J. Hoard, Shenel Johns, and Georgia Heers, singing songs from Billy Strayhorn to Shania Twain
• A diverse, expansive program tracing the lineage of Black American music 
• Experience the Appel Room, JALC’s indoor amphitheater overlooking the New York skyline
• This performance can be purchased as part of the Fridays at 9 series. Purchase three different 9 pm Appel Room concerts for only $99. 

PERFORMANCE LINEUP

Drummer, Arranger, Composer, Music Director, Conductor: Bryan Carter

Vocals: Vuyo Sotashe, J. Hoard, Shenel Johns, Georgia Heers
Piano: Joe Block
Guitar: Leo Larratt
Bass: Alexander Claffy
Percussionist(s): Cameron Macintosh, Will Hopkins

Concertmaster: Audrey Hayes
Associate Principal: Eli Bishop

Violin: Kevin Kuh, Tomo Akaboshi, Josh Henderson, Edward W. Hardy, Lavinia Pavlish, Daniel Constant, Maria Im
Viola: Tia Allen, Laura Sacks, Yumi Oshima
Cello: Kristine Kruta, Sasha Ono, Mitch Lyon 

Reeds: Christopher McBride, Lucas Pino, Erica Von Kleist, Lauren Sevian
Trumpet: Bryan Davis, Anthony Hervey
Trombone: Jasim Perales, Mariel Bildsten