Northwestern University Jazz Orchestra
When:
Thursday, March 12, 2026
7:30 PM - 9:00 PM CT
Where: Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, Galvin Recital Hall, 70 Arts Circle, Evanston, IL 60208 map it
Audience: Faculty/Staff - Student - Public - Post Docs/Docs - Graduate Students
Cost: Tickets are $8 for the general public and $5 for students with valid ID.
Contact:
Concert Management Office
(847) 467-4000
events.music@northwestern.edu
Group: Bienen School of Music Concerts and Events
Category: Fine Arts
Description:
Derrick Gardner, conductor; Ron Blake, saxophone
The Jazz Orchestra welcomes saxophonist and alumnus Ron Blake (‘86) for their second winter concert. Previously a member of Roy Hargrove and Art Farmer’s ensembles, Blake co-founded the 21st Century Band and the Tahmun record label with drummer Dion Parson. A member of the Emmy-winning Saturday Night Live Band and the Grammy-winning Christian McBride Big Band, he has appeared on more than 60 recordings as a guest or sideman. His August 2025 release, Ron Blake Scratch Band, is a reflection on his childhood memories of local bands from his birthplace of the Virgin Islands.