Oaktown Jazz Workshops is local community-based nonprofit dedicated to passing on the tradition of jazz music to young people. Based in Oakland, founded in 1994, the organization provides music instruction and educational presentations that celebrate jazz as an indigenous American art form of profound social, cultural, and artistic significance. Tonight’s show is a benefit to help promote their good work.

John Santos is a Bay Area jazz institution all by himself. Charismatic bandleader, percussionist extraordinaire, dedicated educator, and five-time Grammy nominee, John has worked with enough musical legends to fill a hall of fame, from Dizzy Gillespie to Max Roach, Tito Puente to Tootie Heath. His Machete Ensemble occupied the pinnacle of Latin jazz in the Bay Area for more than twenty years.

Richard Howell is a spirited and spiritual saxophone player, singer, and multi-instrumentalist who has performed with a vast array of artists including Etta James, Cecil Taylor, Charlie Haden, Joe Lewis Walker, Willie Bobo, Salif Keita, and Carlos Santana. On stage, he is a commanding presence who plays with a wonderful combination of power and sensitivity.

Visit the Oaktown Jazz Workshops' website