Andrea Brachfeld brings her vibrant flute voice back to the Newark and NYC scene on April 24 with a special performance at Clements Place Jazz, joined by her longtime musical partners Bill O’Connell (piano), Harvie S (bass), and Jason Tiemann (drums). From 7:30 to 10:00 PM, audiences can expect an evening of deep swing, lyrical improvisation, and the kind of musical chemistry that only comes from years of collaboration. Admission is free, Photo by Richard Ryles.

Andrea Brachfeld — Flutist, Composer, Bandleader

Andrea Brachfeld stands as one of the most influential and innovative flutists in modern jazz. With a career that spans decades and crosses genres, she has carved out a singular voice defined by lyrical phrasing, fearless improvisation, and a deep connection to both Latin jazz and straight‑ahead traditions. Andrea first gained national attention as the flutist for the groundbreaking Latin jazz ensemble Charanga ’76, and she has since recorded numerous acclaimed albums as a leader, collaborating with some of the most respected musicians in the world. Her performances are marked by emotional clarity, rhythmic fire, and a spiritual openness that draws audiences in from the first note. Whether on festival stages, intimate clubs, or educational platforms, Andrea continues to push the boundaries of her instrument while honoring the lineage of the music she loves.

Bill O’Connell — Pianist, Composer, Arranger

Bill O’Connell is a powerhouse pianist whose artistry bridges the worlds of straight‑ahead jazz and Afro‑Caribbean traditions with effortless fluency. A longtime collaborator with legends such as Mongo Santamaría, Dave Valentin, and Conrad Herwig, Bill has developed a signature style that blends harmonic sophistication, rhythmic intensity, and melodic clarity. His touch at the piano is both commanding and sensitive, capable of explosive energy one moment and introspective nuance the next. As a composer and arranger, he has contributed a rich body of work that continues to influence contemporary Latin jazz. Onstage, Bill brings a deep sense of swing, a fearless improvisational spirit, and a musical intelligence that elevates every ensemble he joins.

Harvie S — Bassist, Composer, Educator

Harvie S is a celebrated bassist whose warm tone, impeccable time, and melodic sensibility have made him a first‑call musician for more than four decades. His career includes collaborations with iconic artists such as Sheila Jordan, Jim Hall, Stan Getz, and Toots Thielemans, as well as an extensive catalog of recordings as both leader and sideman. Harvie’s playing is rooted in deep listening — he shapes the music from the inside out, supporting, guiding, and inspiring the musicians around him. Beyond performance, he is a respected educator who has mentored generations of young artists. Whether in acoustic trio settings, Latin jazz ensembles, or modern improvisational groups, Harvie brings a level of artistry and experience that enriches every musical moment.

Jason Tiemann — Drummer, Educator, Ensemble Specialist

Jason Tiemann is a dynamic drummer known for his precision, versatility, and deep respect for the jazz tradition. Originally from the Midwest and now a fixture on the New York scene, Jason has performed with a wide range of artists including Benny Golson, Eric Alexander, Mike LeDonne, and Peter Bernstein. His playing is marked by clarity of time, crisp articulation, and a refined sense of swing that anchors any ensemble he joins. Jason’s approach blends technical mastery with a sensitive musical touch, allowing him to move seamlessly from high‑energy modern jazz to subtle, brush‑driven ballads. In addition to his performance career, he is a dedicated educator whose teaching emphasizes musicality, discipline, and the craft of ensemble playing.