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Registration for the festival is now open: pittstate.edu/music/midwest-trumpet-festival.html
From master classes and recitals to collaborative concerts and continuing education sessions, the festival is the premier destination for trumpet players of all ages and levels. It is directed by Professor Todd Hastings.
Porter's concert, free and open to the public, will be at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4 in McCray Hall. His dynamic career has spanned more than two decades on the international jazz scene.
Also slated to perform during the festival are The Sons of Brasil, Kansas City's premier Brazilian jazz ensemble. They’ll take the stage at 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, where the bulk of the two-day festival will be held. Their concert also is free and open to the public.
A prolific recording artist, Porter has released six albums and performed at major jazz festivals around the world — including at renowned venues such as The Blue Note, Birdland, Dizzy’s Club, Smalls, and The Jazz Gallery.
Drawing on his Lebanese, Greek, Italian, and British heritage, Porter brings a global perspective to his music, blending tradition, innovation, and storytelling through concept-driven projects.
Described by Downbeat Magazine as “fluid, expressive, and magnificent,” Porter continues to push the boundaries of modern jazz through his performances, compositions, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
A recipient of commissions from the Doris Duke Foundation and Chamber Music America, Porter is also professor of trumpet at New York University.
Learn more: charlieportermusic.com
Since 1991, The Sons of Brasil has captivated audiences with an irresistible blend of bossa nova, samba, choro, and contemporary Brazilian jazz, delivering authentic rhythms, rich melodies, and world-class musicianship.
The group includes many notable jazz musicians, including Stan Kessler (trumpet and flugelhorn); Danny Embrey (guitar); Greg Whitfield (electric bass); Doug Auwarter (drums); Gary Helm (percussion); and Roger Wilder (keyboards).
Learn more: thesonsofbrasil.com
