The Fellowship Band; photo credit Erin Larkin

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

6 PM & 8:30 PM

The summer series opens Wednesday, June 19, with a special celebration of Juneteenth featuring Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band (note two separate shows at 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.). One of the world’s leading jazz drummers, Blade brings Jon Cowherd on piano, Melvin Butler on tenor and soprano saxophone, Myron Walden on alto saxophone and bass clarinet, and Roland Guerin on bass, to the Athenaeum for their first local appearance.

Called “one of the most distinctive and long-running bands in jazz in the 21st century” the group has released seven albums, ranging from Brian Blade Fellowship (1998) to Kings Highway (2023). From the beginning, they created a sound of its own genre, encompassing jazz, gospel, and folk music, inspiring listeners worldwide. A multi-Grammy winning artist and composer, Blade’s career includes work with artists from Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, and Joshua Redman to Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan. NPR called The Fellowship Band “an all-star lineup that functions more like a harmonious congregation, ebbing and flowing as one.”

The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. respectively. Seating is first-come; first-served. These events will be presented in compliance with State of California and County of San Diego health regulations as applicable at the time of each concert.