Knox College is thrilled to announce the 2024 Jerome Mirza Jazz Residency, featuring the internationally acclaimed guitarist Gilad Hekselman. This week-long event will immerse Knox College students in intensive and collaborative jazz activities, culminating in a free public concert at the historic Orpheum Theatre on Friday, January 19, 2024, starting at 7:00 p.m. The concert will showcase Knox student groups alongside the guest artists, including the amazing Gilad Hekselman Trio.

Gilad Hekselman is one of the leading voices in modern guitar. After he arrived in New York in 2004, this native Israeli has shared stages with some of the greatest artists in the New York City jazz scene. Hekselman’s groups have been featured multiple times at the legendary New York City venue The Village Vanguard, in addition to some of the most renowned stages around the world. 

Recognized for his outstanding contributions to jazz, Hekselman has received numerous awards and accolades, including the esteemed Rising Star Guitarist title in Downbeat Magazine. Hekselman has released 10 critically acclaimed records as a band leader, many of which have made it into 'best of the year' lists in The New York Times, Downbeat Magazine, All About Jazz, and many other publications. 

The Gilad Hekselman Trio promises an unforgettable musical journey, blending elements of traditional jazz, modern fusion, and Hekselman's distinctive compositional style. Witness the seamless synergy between Hekselman, bassist Joe Martin, and drummer Joe Dyson as they create a sound that is both technically dazzling and emotionally resonant. 

The public is invited to attend this free concert at the Orpheum Theatre to witness an evening of musical artistry, made possible through the generous support of the Jerome Mirza Foundation.

The Mirza Jazz Residency is funded by the Jerome Mirza Foundation of Bloomington, Illinois. The foundation, which supports programs in education and the arts, was created by a bequest from Jerome Mirza, an attorney who served as president of the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and who wrote several books on personal injury law. Mirza’s daughter, Candace Mirza of Wilmette, Illinois, is a 1981 Knox graduate.

For more info: 

www.giladhekselman.com/

www.knox.edu/jazzyear