Celebrate Women’s History Month with a Night of Enchanting Jazz

In celebration of Women’s History Month, a designated month in the United States since 1987 to honor women’s contributions to history, culture, and society, East End Jazz, in collaboration with LTV Studios, presents a special concert featuring an all-star lineup of female musicians performing the works of legendary female jazz composers and performers. This dynamic concert will take place on March 8th, 2025 at LTV Studios, showcasing the incredible talent and artistry of women who have shaped the landscape of jazz music.

“This concert is more than just a performance; it’s a celebration,” says Iris Ornig, Director of East End Jazz. “It is a time to recognize and honor the contributions of female vocalists, composers, bandleaders, and instrumentalists, and to inspire the next generation of female musicians.”

The concert will feature a talented ensemble of musicians, including:

– Lauren Kinhan – singer, composer, arranger and educator Lauren Kinhan has been creating genre merging music for decades.  Whether writing and producing her own records, touring as a member of the internationally renowned New York Voices or passing her knowledge on to the next generation, Lauren’s fearless spirit shows no signs of slowing down.  In fact, its just the opposite.

– Olivia Foschi – jazz singer, composer and educator who weaves together the rich tapestries of her San Francisco roots and Italian upbringing with her profound passion for jazz. With three albums to her credit, Foschi consistently delivers impeccable timing and finesse in her performances. She has performed throughout the United States, Europe and Japan, sharing the stage with esteemed musicians such as Gil Goldstein, Thurman Barker, Ulysses Owens Jr., among many others.

– Ada Rovatti – Born in Italy, Ada Rovatti is a renowned saxophonist and composer. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, she has performed with the WDR Big Band, toured with the Brecker Brothers Band Reunion, and led her own acclaimed Elephunk Band. She has released 7 albums under her name.

– Kal Ferritti – Kal Ferretti is a 22 year old trumpet player based in NYC, studying at the Manhattan School of Music with Ingrid Jensen. She has worked with artists/bands such as the Christian McBride Big Band, Mingus Dynasty/Big Band, drummer Matt Wilson and “Permission Slip”, saxophonist Dave Glasser, trumpeter Bruce Harris, JALC’s Future of Jazz Orchestra, and has led her own band at Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola, Bern Jazz Festival, and Dave Douglas’ Festival of New Trumpet Music. 

– Miki Hayama – Originally from Kyoto, Japan, Miki Hayama’s musical journey began with a classical piano degree from Osaka College of Music and further jazz training with the esteemed Sadayasu Fujii. Her passion for jazz led her to the vibrant New York jazz scene in 2003, where she has since established herself as a prominent figure. Miki has performed and recorded with a stellar lineup of jazz legends including Kenny Garrett, Ralph Peterson, Sean Jones, Tia Fuller, and Roy Hargrove, among others. Her impressive discography includes acclaimed albums such as “Prelude to a Kiss”. Recently, Miki served as the musical director, arranger, and keyboardist for Nnenna Freelon’s GRAMMY-nominated album “Time Traveler.”

– Iris Ornig – Bassist and composer Iris Ornig is one of the most original female voices on the contemporary New York jazz scene. Since arriving in New York City from Germany in 2003, she has performed with an impressive roster of some of the most influential contemporary jazz musicians, including Gretchen Parlato, Ambrose Akinmusire, Joel Frahm, Kurt Rosenwinkel and many others. Ornig is a gifted instrumentalist, a talented composer and arranger, and a charismatic performer. Her compositions are swinging, stormy, melodic, sensitive, playful, angular, and straight-ahead, always offering plenty of twists and surprises.

– Gary Kerkezou – A rising star in the jazz world and graduate of Berklee College of Music and Manhattan School of Music, Gary Kerkezou, born and raised in Greece, is a highly sought-after drummer on the New York City jazz scene. She has performed with top-tier musicians like Christian McBride and Regina Carter, and is an active educator, teaching at Jazz House Kids and conducting masterclasses at renowned institutions. Beyond her drumming abilities, Kerkezou is also a classically trained violinist. This multifaceted musician continues to captivate audiences with her dynamic playing and infectious energy.

The repertoire will showcase the music of iconic female jazz figures such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Mary Lou Williams, Carla Bley, Alice Coltrane, Dorothea Fields, Irene Higginbotham, and many more.

“By performing the works of these legendary women, we can help to preserve and promote this rich musical tradition,” adds Ornig. “This concert is an opportunity to honor their legacies and inspire future generations of female musicians.”

Enjoy an evening of captivating music honoring the incredible women who have shaped the history of jazz.

For more information and ticket details, please visit Eastendjazz.org