ARTIST SPOTLIGHTS

May 2019

CHARLES WILLIAMS

Charles D. Williams, is a native of Kansas City, Kansas. Mr.Williams has played piano for over 40 years. As a trombonist, he studied under Mr. Leon Brady at Sumner High School and supplemented this training with musical studies under the tutelage of the late Mr.Reginald Buckner. Mr.Williams was a member of the award-winning Sumner Jazz Band that also attended the Paris International Jazz festival in Paris France in 1972, and was auspiciously judged to be “the best High School Band in the World. Mr. Williams also had the pleasure of participating in the Turner House Jazz series in the 70’s – having opportunity to play with such great jazz artist as: Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Roy Ayers, Cannonball and Nat Adderley, Frank Wess, Clark Terry, Ernie Wilkins, Rich Matteson,and many more.

STAN KESSLER

Anyone who's stepped inside a Kansas City jazz club during the past several decades has probably run into Stan Kessler, the impish trumpeter known for amusing pranks and soulful solos. Kessler has played music in Kansas City for 40 years, serving as the jazz scene's crafty institutional memory and passionate conscience. He's seen a lot of ups and downs, but his new album, "Skywatcher," makes a career-defining statement, showcasing his formidable talent at the same time as it demonstrates the vitality of the regional scene. “One of the reasons I’ve been successful is that I understood early on that you had to find a blend between what you want to do artistically and what people will enjoy listening to,” Kessler says. “Art and the commercial aspect have to go together if you’re going to stay in the game.”

jackie myers

Jackie Myers may have the Midas touch for groove, conjuring up musical styles ranging from soul, jazz and modern R&B. The Instrumental One, Myers most recent release is a live album she was invited to record at the prestigious venue The Green Lady in Kansas City, MO. The album was featured in Kansas City's music Magazine The Jam; and received a positive review by music columnist Roger Atkinson who gave his nod of approval at the end of the review with his closing sentiment "Jackie Myers has a new fan: me."