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By Vince Robinson
A Presidential Welcome with Star Power
Tri-C President Dr. Michael Baston kicked off the 46th annual Tri-C JazzFest with an energy that matched that of the opening act, Trombone Shorty. Baston enthusiastically welcomed five new recipients of the festival’s Jazz Legends Award before introducing the New Orleans-bred ball of energy.
Honorees included Chris Anderson, Scott Balogh, Frank J. Barrett, Ph.D., Carol A. Cunningham, M.D., and Ken LeeGrand.
Trombone Shorty Blows the Roof Off
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue filled the stage with movement and a sound that brought the audience to its feet. For nearly an hour and a half, the frontman danced across the stage, slapped a tambourine, and brandished both a trombone and trumpet—holding one note for what felt like an eternity before collapsing to his knees. After a brief pause and a swig of water, he returned with force, recharging a crowd already electrified.
Oscar Peterson Tribute Delivers Pure Jazz Precision
The next day brought a different energy, with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra delivering a Centennial Tribute to Oscar Peterson. The performance, driven by pianist Benny Green, was marked by intensity and precision. Green’s dexterous playing channeled the Canadian legend with cascading notes that recalled Peterson’s timeless artistry.
Akron native guitarist Dan Wilson joined the ensemble led by bassist and conductor John Clayton and his longtime collaborator, drummer Jeff Hamilton.
Stanley Clarke Bridges Generations with N‑4EVER
Stanley Clarke N‑4EVER followed with a set defined by intergenerational energy. The jazz bass legend showcased a band of young talents whose fresh ideas and bold execution left Clarke beaming. The lineup featured Cameron Graves (piano), Jeremiah Collier (drums), Emilio Modesto (saxophone), Colin Cook (guitar), and Evan Garr (violin).
Sun Ra Arkestra: A Cosmic Celebration of Black Artistry
Friday night closed with the Sun Ra Arkestra, a 13-member group of seasoned performers blending big band, swing, and space-age free jazz. Continuing Sun Ra’s Afrofuturist legacy, the ensemble offered a visionary mix of music, dance, and pageantry that connected history with future-facing Black expression.
A Sudden Shift Becomes a Soulful Surprise
Saturday’s programming featured a tribute to Chick Corea and Gary Burton with two performances: one by Dominick Farinacci & Friends, and another by Taylor Eigsti and Christian Tamburr. Originally scheduled headliner Dianne Reeves was unable to perform due to a death in her family. 
Stepping in was the Baylor Project, a husband-and-wife team comprised of Jean Baylor, formerly of Zhane, and Marcus Baylor, a former Yellowjackets drummer. Their soulful delivery, combining her emotive vocals with his expert rhythms, resonated deeply with the crowd.
Testimony Through Jazz: Whalum and Butler Inspire
Smooth jazz with gospel and R&B overtones took center stage next with sets from Kirk Whalum and Jonathan Butler. Memphis-born Whalum, wearing a cap that read “Epic Cool,” the name of his latest album, delivered a stirring set laced with testimony and spirited solos. Pianist and solo artist John Stoddard anchored the band with expressive support.
Butler, accompanied by his wife, violinist Nadira Scruggs, followed with a personal set highlighted by a story of faith and a border-crossing mishap resolved through his music. His narratives underscored the power of art and recognition.
Rhythm, Fire, and Finale: Pedrito Martinez Closes the Show
The indoor series wrapped with Afro-Cuban intensity courtesy of percussionist Pedrito Martinez. Salsa dancers filled the front of the stage as Martinez and his ensemble—Manny Marquez (percussion/vocals), Ahmed Alom (keys/vocals), Sebastian Natal (bass/vocals), and Xito Lovell (trombone/vocals)—brought polyrhythmic heat. Special guest Djembe master Weedie Braimah added an explosive accent to the rhythmic finale.
A Festival of Sound, Spirit, and Synergy
From explosive brass to contemplative piano, from free jazz to tight harmonies, Tri-C JazzFest 2025 delivered a mosaic of musical energy across generations, genres, and global traditions.
Vince Robinson is a multidisciplinary artist based in Cleveland, Ohio. He began practicing photography in the 1970s while studying telecommunications and Pan-African studies at Kent State University. His career has included work as a radio news reporter, television and radio producer and host, voiceover artist, entertainment journalist, and photographer. He currently hosts Open Door, a television program he once directed and now leads as both host and executive producer.
