Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

Jazz and Joy feat. Lynette Sheard, Nat Adderley Jr and Friends in 2025 North 2 Shore Festival

June 28, 2025 @ 7:00 pm 8:30 pm EDT

20250628 North 2 Shore Festival 7 – 8:30 PM

Jazz and Joy​ -Mind Over Music  Living Life​ Featuring Singer Lynette Sheard with iconic pianist Nat Adderley and Friends.  Join us for a live music session with the dynamic singer Lynette Sheard and the iconic pianist Nat Adderley Jr whose notable history includes being the composer, arranger, songwriter for over 20 years for Luther Vandross. Nat Jr has a historic Jazz lineage dating back to famed family members Cornetist Nat Adderley and Saxophonist Cannonball Adderley

Prepare for an extraordinary evening curated and produced by Gregory Burrus Productions, celebrating the profound connection between music, mental health and the power of embracing the art of living in the moment. With the skills of world-class musicians leading the way, audiences will see first-hand how jazz improvisation parallels the mindfulness and presence essential to mental wellness.

Joining Lynette Sheard on Stage will be an impressive set of performers:

MHANJ Mental Health Players New Jersey

The evening begins with an enlightening discussion led by MHANJ Mental Health Players, who will explore the connection between mental health and jazz. The Mental Health Association in New Jersey’s NJ Mental Health Players (NJMHP) is the longest-running community education program of its type in NJ. Their presentations provide audiences with a dynamic way to receive basic education about mental illness, addiction and other relevant challenges.

Lynette Sheard

After the talk, be swept away as Lynette Sheard — a versatile vocalist with an astonishing five-octave range and perfect pitch — takes the stage alongside piano phenom Nat Adderley, Jr. and friends. The Star Ledger wasn’t exaggerating when they wrote: “Her voice reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” As director of the award-winning NJ Mental Health Players, Sheard brings unique insight to the healing power of creative expression.

Nat Adderley Jr.

Besides releasing his first single, Adderley brings his own impressive resume to the table as — among other accolades — pianist, composer and arranger for the legendary Luther Vandross. Nat Adderley Jr also has a historic Jazz lineage dating back to famed family members Cornetist Nat Adderley and Saxophonist Cannonball Adderley

Damon Duewhite

Come enjoy the exceptional talent of Damon DueWhite, a highly acclaimed musician celebrated for his incredible drumming and percussion skills. He honed his skills by playing in church and school bands, eventually leading to a full scholarship at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. From electrifying performances in hit Broadway musicals like MJ The Musical and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical to sharing the stage with music legends like Chaka Khan, DueWhite’s musical journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Bassist – Chris Berger

Bassist Chris Berger honed his skills in jazz and classical music at Bowling Green State University before embarking on a world tour with Maynard Ferguson. Since his move to NYC in 1994, he has collaborated with jazz greats like Herb Ellis, Jimmy Cobb, and Ron Carter. Currently touring with TS Monk and working with Nat Adderley Jr., Chris continues to expand his musical horizons.

Audience members often describe leaving these events not just entertained, but emotionally replenished and inspired. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to find healing in harmony.

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey’s NJ Mental Health Players (NJMHP) is the longest-running community education program of its type in New Jersey. Presentations provide audiences with a dynamic way to receive basic education about mental illness, addiction, and other relevant challenges.

About North 2 Shore Festival

Prudential Financial and NJPAC presents the 2025 North to Shore Festival which features all the talent, diversity and creativity that New Jersey has to provide, delivering performances, screenings, parties and conversations in three of the state’s most iconic cities. In partnership with Atlantic City, Asbury Park, and Newark, the festival guarantees an over-the-top showcase of Jersey excellence. Conceived by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy, the North 2 Shore Festival aims to spotlight New Jersey’s role as a destination for the arts and entertainment and an incubator of new ideas and fresh talent.

Learn More North 2 Shore Press Release 2025

 7- 8:30 Pm Jazz And Joy Featuring Lynette Sheard W Nat Adderley Jr And Friends And Mental Health Players Produced By Gregory Burrus Productions

Free

Discover more from Gregory Burrus Productions

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.