Raisbeck Auditorium

Paul de Barros enthusiastically notes that Bisio's "distinctive approach features an enormous sound, warm and woody; impeccable classical bowing technique; a soulful, moody feel for the blues and swing; and a bevy of extended techniques." Seattle Times

This performance will be a extraordinary treat—the premiere of Kendrick's Chamber Music America & Jack Straw supported original suite "Grounded"—a multi-movement work for string quartet, jazz quartet, harmonium and other healing instruments.

Violist and composer Mat Maneri is a master of improvisation. He follows in the footsteps of stellar improvisers Paul Bley and Paul Motian with a sound that is distinctly his own and developed over years of discovery and practice.

Experimental and boundary-pushing describe the sometimes difficult to encapsulate, enigmatic artist and alto saxophonist Tim Berne. He readily embraces artistry that is compellingly different and questions itself as well as the world we inhabit.

Jonah Parzen-Johnson's approach to music includes both improvisation and composition that is both formidable and unique. Seattle-based Here to Play opens with Kelsey Mines, Neil Welch, and Gregg Keplinger and brings forward-thinking to the festival.

This trio consists of three highly innovative improvisers with great finesse and sensitivity in collective playing that creates adventurous jazz. Their instruments mesh in such a way that the sax and a bowed bass sound as one.