The name Charles Lewis Quintet resonates with an echo of jazz history in the Phoenix area, and for good reason. Born in Philadelphia, Lewis moved to Arizona in 1953, where he not only studied but also began to imprint his legacy on the local music scene. Known for his profound influence on jazz in Arizona, Lewis has been celebrated as the first jazz-category inductee into the Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. His journey from church functions to the stages of Arizona State University and beyond is a testament to his enduring passion for jazz.
The Charles Lewis Quintet’s Lineup
The Charles Lewis Quintet stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of jazz, where individual brilliance converges to create something uniquely collective and transcendent. At the heart of this ensemble is Charles Lewis himself, whose mastery of the piano not only guides the group but also sets a tone of innovation and reverence for jazz’s rich heritage. Lewis’s fingers dance across the keys, weaving complex harmonies that both anchor and elevate the quintet’s sound.
Complementing Lewis’s piano is Joe Corral on the flute. Corral’s melodic touch introduces a soft, lyrical element to the group’s repertoire. His flute work often serves as a counterpoint to the more robust sounds of the other instruments, providing a delicate balance that can soothe or stir, depending on the composition. His ability to blend seamlessly with the ensemble while still maintaining a distinct voice is crucial to the quintet’s layered sound.
Frank Smith, a versatile musician, adds depth with his dual proficiency on the alto and tenor saxophones, as well as the flute. Smith’s saxophone work ranges from the smooth, mellow tones of the alto to the richer, more assertive voice of the tenor sax. His ability to switch instruments within performances not only showcases his skill but also allows the quintet to explore different textures and moods, enriching their musical narrative with each note.
The rhythmic backbone of the quintet is provided by Dwight Kilian on bass. Known as one of the Southwest’s finest in the jazz scene, Kilian’s bass lines are both foundational and dynamic. His playing does more than just keep time; it converses with the other instruments, offering a dialogue that is both supportive and provocative. His deep understanding of rhythm and harmony ensures that the quintet’s sound is always grounded yet free to explore.
Finally, Dom Moio on drums completes the quintet with his unparalleled skill in maintaining the group’s pulse. Known for his demand in the Valley, Moio’s drumming is both precise and expressive. He isn’t just keeping the beat; he’s shaping it, responding to the music’s flow with a sensitivity that allows for both subtle shifts and dramatic changes. His ability to adapt and react in real-time to the group’s improvisational forays is what keeps the quintet’s performances vibrant and engaging.
Together, these five musicians form The Charles Lewis Quintet, an ensemble that transcends mere performance to create an experience. Their music is a homage to jazz’s storied past while boldly pushing into new territories. Each concert is a journey through sound, where classics are revisited with fresh interpretations, and new compositions are born from the synergy of their collective talents. For anyone seeking to experience jazz in its purest form, the Charles Lewis Quintet offers an evening where tradition meets innovation, all through the power of their collective artistry.
The Venue: ASU Kerr Cultural Center
The ASU Kerr Cultural Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, is more than just a venue; it’s a sanctuary for the arts, deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the region. Located at 6110 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253, USA, this center has been a beacon for music lovers and artists since it was once the home of Louise Lincoln Kerr, a celebrated composer and violist. The Kerr family’s legacy in the arts has imbued the place with a spirit of creativity and excellence.
The center’s intimate setting is ideal for the nuanced performances of the Charles Lewis Quintet. With a capacity of up to 240 people in a theater-style seating arrangement, it ensures that the audience is close enough to feel every vibration of the music. The acoustics here are particularly noteworthy, having been fine-tuned over the years to resonate with the delicate and dynamic sounds of classical and jazz music.
This venue’s rich history and architectural charm provide an atmospheric backdrop that complements the quintet’s music. The walls seem to absorb and then echo back the music, creating an immersive experience where listeners are not just hearing the performance but feeling it. The setting at ASU Kerr Cultural Center allows for a direct, personal connection between the musicians and the audience, enhancing the emotional and intellectual appreciation of jazz in a way that larger, more impersonal venues might not.
For a group like the Charles Lewis Quintet, known for their intricate interplay and expressive performances, the Kerr Cultural Center is not just a performance space but a collaborator in the art of music. Here, the quintet can explore the full spectrum of their sound, from the softest whispers of the flute and piano to the bold declarations of the saxophone and drums, all under one roof that has celebrated music for generations. This venue, with its history, acoustics, and intimate seating, turns a night of jazz into a memorable cultural event.
The Event: A Night of Jazz in 2025
Date: March 12, 2025Time: 7:30 PMLocation: ASU Kerr Cultural Center, Scottsdale, AZTickets: Available through various platforms like Ticketmaster, Event Tickets Center, and directly from the venue.
The upcoming concert at the ASU Kerr Cultural Center by the Charles Lewis Quintet transcends the traditional boundaries of a musical performance, promising an enriched cultural experience. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
A Journey Through Jazz: The evening will serve as a musical odyssey, exploring the rich tapestry of jazz from its bebop roots to contemporary expressions. The quintet, with its seasoned musicians, will guide the audience through this evolution, demonstrating their profound mastery over the genre. From the intricate improvisations of bebop to the more experimental sounds of modern jazz, each piece will reflect the quintet’s deep understanding and love for jazz’s diverse influences.
Interactive Elements: One of the highlights of attending a Charles Lewis Quintet concert is the interactive nature of the event. Charles Lewis himself, with his charismatic presence, often shares personal anecdotes that weave through the music. These stories not only provide insight into the pieces performed but also connect the audience with the broader narrative of jazz history. His connection with ASU Kerr, a venue steeped in musical heritage, adds a layer of intimacy and education to the concert, making each event uniquely engaging. This interaction transforms listeners into participants in a living history of music.
Celebration of Local Culture: Beyond the notes and rhythms, this concert celebrates the cultural heritage of Scottsdale and Phoenix. Jazz, with its roots in diverse cultural expressions, serves as a perfect medium to highlight local history and community. The event will resonate with the local audience, acknowledging the area’s contributions to arts and culture. By choosing ASU Kerr, a venue with its own storied past, the quintet pays homage to the region’s musical legacy while also fostering a sense of community pride and cultural appreciation.
This concert, therefore, promises to be more than just an auditory delight; it’s an immersive cultural event where the audience can experience the evolution of jazz, engage directly with its storytellers, and celebrate the shared cultural heritage of the Valley. It’s an invitation to not only listen but to feel and participate in the ongoing story of jazz, right in the heart of Scottsdale.
Book Other Concerts : Engelbert Humperdinck
Conclusion
The Charles Lewis Quintet concert at ASU Kerr in 2025 is more than just a musical event; it’s a convergence of history, talent, and community. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, this performance promises to be an unforgettable experience. Secure your tickets, prepare for an evening of soulful melodies, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of jazz that only Charles Lewis and his quintet can weave.
