BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Gregory Burrus Productions - ECPv6.17.4//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Gregory Burrus Productions X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gregory Burrus Productions REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T200000 DTSTAMP:20260820T084545Z CREATED:20260820T080039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T084545Z UID:10002822-1788026400-1788033600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Summer Streets 2026: Jersey Swamp Cats — in Maplewood Village DESCRIPTION:Jersey Swamp Cats will bring their piano‑driven vintage rock sound to Maplewood Village on August 29th\, delivering a lively Summer Streets performance built on rollicking keys\, tight rhythms\, and the warm throwback vibe of early rock‑and‑roll. \n\n\n\nWith bluesy piano lines at the center of their groove and a band that knows how to keep the energy high\, their upcoming set promises upbeat originals\, classic rock‑inspired jams\, and a feel‑good atmosphere that gets the Village moving. The Cats’ playful stage presence and rootsy sound always create a street‑side celebration\, and this late‑August performance is set to be one of the season’s most spirited highlights. \n\n\n\nGet ready for vintage rock charm\, driving piano\, and a whole lot of Summer Streets fun. \n\n\n\nLocation\n\n\n\nMaplewood Avenue (Between Woodland & Highland Streets) Maplewood\, NJ 07040 \n\n\n\nEventbrite Description \n\n\n\nMaplewood Village Summer Streets 2026 brings six Saturdays of live music\, dining\, strolling\, and community celebration to the heart of Maplewood. From August 29 through October 3\, Maplewood Avenue transforms into a pedestrian plaza filled with outdoor dining\, extended shopping hours\, and performances from some of New Jersey’s most exciting artists. \n\n\n\nBring your friends\, family\, and lawn chairs — enjoy dinner outdoors\, shop local\, and experience live music under the evening sky. \n\n\n\nTime: 6–8 PM Cost: Free community event Presented by: Gregory Burrus Productions & Maplewood Village Alliance URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/summer-streets-2026-jersey-swamp-cats-in-maplewood-village/ LOCATION:Maplewood Village\, Highland Place and Maplewood Ave\, Maplewood\, NJ\, 07040\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music,Rock ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/MVA-Slummer-Strees-2026-5.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260823T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260823T130000 DTSTAMP:20260822T150740Z CREATED:20260822T150535Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260822T150740Z UID:10002823-1787484600-1787490000@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Jesus and Jazz Presents Alexis Morrast DESCRIPTION:Register on Eventbrite\n\n\n \n\n\n\nMount Zion AME Church in Millburn announces its upcoming Jesus & Jazz worship‑arts service\, featuring acclaimed young vocalist Alexis Morrast. The 4th‑Sunday gathering blends sacred tradition with the expressive power of jazz\, offering a morning where music\, ministry\, and community rise together. \n\n\n\nMorrast\, a two‑time winner of Showtime at the Apollo and recipient of the NAACP Youth in the Arts Award\, has performed at premier venues including the Newport Jazz Festival and the Kennedy Center. Her sound—rooted in church and shaped by jazz—carries purity\, soul\, and effortless musicality. Known for her sincerity and spiritual clarity\, she brings depth to hymns\, jazz standards\, and contemporary pieces alike. \n\n\n\nDespite national acclaim\, Morrast remains grounded in faith\, family\, and purpose. For this service\, she offers a ministry of music designed to inspire praise\, reflection\, and joy. She will be joined by pianist Phil Bingham\, whose artistry supports and elevates her performance. \n\n\n\nThe event invites congregants and guests to experience a radiant morning where worship meets artistry\, and every note becomes an expression of devotion. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/jesus-and-jazz-presents-alexis-morrast/ LOCATION:Mt Zion AME Church\, 54 Church Street\, Milburn\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Jazz,Jesus and Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Jesus-and-Jazz-Mt-Zion-AME-Millburn_20260822_101035_0000.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T220000 DTSTAMP:20260626T120842Z CREATED:20260622T192433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T120842Z UID:10002762-1782502200-1782511200@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! with special guest Stefon Harris - @Express Newark DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their final monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-atexpree-newark/ LOCATION:EXPRESS NEWARK\, 54 HALSEY STREET\, Newark\, New Jersey\, 07102\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260614T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260614T163000 DTSTAMP:20260610T163656Z CREATED:20260522T173509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260610T163656Z UID:10002753-1781449200-1781454600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Live Jazz Highlight: Jarrett Walser Trio Joins Millburn’s Juneteenth Celebration DESCRIPTION:Come enjoy live music of the Jarrett Walser Trio and celebrate Juneteenth Community Unity Day . \n\n\n\nThe Jarrett Walser Trio with Gabe Plotkin – Piano and Billy Carrión on Bass will provide live music for the Township of Millburn and the Black Americans of Millburn Short Hills (BAMS) Juneteenth Celebration. Their performance adds a powerful musical voice to a day dedicated to freedom\, heritage\, and unity as Millburn gathers to honor the meaning and legacy of Juneteenth. \n\n\n\nThis Millburn Juneteenth Event event brings together a coalition of community partners — the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges\, Mt Zion Church\, the Millburn High School Black Student Union\, and the NAACP Oranges & Maplewood Branch — all united in service\, education\, and celebration. \n\n\n\nBring a jar. Bring a friend. Bring your heart for community. Together\, we can hit that 1\,000‑jar goal and make a real difference. \n\n\n\nJoin the movement: 📅 Sunday\, June 14\, 2026 ⏰ 3 PM – 4:30 PM 📍 Bauer Center\, 100 Main St\, Millburn\, NJ \n\n\n\nRegister today or just show up and enjoy the day. \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/live-jazz-highlight-jarrett-walser-trio-joins-millburns-juneteenth-celebration/ LOCATION:Bauer Center\, 100 Main Street\, Millburn\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Jazz,Live Music,Sunday Jazz ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Eventbrite-Jarrett-Walser-Millburn-Juneteenth-by-Mt-Zkion-and-Gregory-Burrus-Productions1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260601T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260601T203000 DTSTAMP:20251228T053335Z CREATED:20251129T053728Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T053335Z UID:10002593-1780340400-1780345800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! Big Band at Clements Place DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-at-clements-place-5/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260504T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260504T203000 DTSTAMP:20251228T053004Z CREATED:20251129T053729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T053004Z UID:10002592-1777921200-1777926600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! Big Band at Clements Place DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-at-clements-place-6/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T130000 DTSTAMP:20260408T025501Z CREATED:20260408T024608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T025501Z UID:10002673-1775993400-1775998800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Blues and Blessings Presents Dermel Warren at Mt Zion AME Milburn DESCRIPTION:Dermel Warren — Blues and Blessings’ Vocalist\n\n\n\nDermel Warren is a vibrant worship vocalist whose joyful spirit and heartfelt delivery light up every sanctuary she enters. Rooted in community\, faith\, and service\, Dermel sings with a warmth that brings people together — lifting hearts\, strengthening fellowship\, and creating space for true praise. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nA familiar and beloved presence across local churches and community gatherings\, she carries a sound shaped by testimony\, resilience\, and deep devotion. Whether leading a hymn\, offering a soulful worship moment\, or igniting the room with Sunday‑morning energy\, Dermel ministers with authenticity and joy. Her voice doesn’t just perform — it connects\, encourages\, and reminds the congregation of God’s presence in every note. \n\n\n\nDermel Warren stands as a shining example of what it means to use one’s gifts for the uplift of both church and community. \n\n\n\nDermel Warren — Performance‑Focused Singer\n\n\n\nDermel Warren is a commanding live vocalist whose repertoire moves effortlessly between gospel soul\, contemporary blues\, and jazz‑infused R&B. Her stage presence combines technical control\, emotional honesty\, and an instinct for reading a room—turning concerts\, club nights\, and church services into memorable communal experiences. Dermel has performed as both a featured solo artist and a sought‑after collaborator\, lending lead and background vocals to major gospel and soul acts. \n\n\n\nNotable collaborations and credits — Dermel has sung with and for acclaimed artists and leaders in gospel and jazz\, including Donald Lawrence\, Richard Smallwood\, Karen Clark‑Sheard\, Yolanda Adams\, Winard Harper\, and Valerie Simpson. She has toured with blues artists Sergio Davis and the late Mel Waiters\, and as a solo artist she opened on the Budweiser Summer Fest Tour for Jill Scott\, Anthony Hamilton\, and Mint Condition. \n\n\n\nKey venues and festival appearances — Dermel’s live résumé spans intimate jazz rooms\, community arts stages\, and regional festivals. Recent and recurring performance highlights include headline and co‑bill dates at Clement’s Place (Newark)\, where she and JD Warren have presented jazz‑infused evenings; community festival stages and arts centers across New Jersey; and curated concert series produced by local presenters such as Gregory Burrus Productions. \n\n\n\nBand work and projects — As co‑leader of JD Warren & The Rudiment with her husband Jeremy Warren\, Dermel blends jazz\, soul\, and inspirational music in a band setting that has been featured on regional jazz programs and concert nights. The duo’s collaborative work highlights her versatility—moving from small‑combo jazz arrangements to full‑band gospel‑soul sets. \n\n\n\nClubs\, community stages\, and regional festivals — Beyond theaters and churches\, Dermel is a regular on the club and community circuit: late‑night jazz lounges\, neighborhood concert series\, and arts festivals that celebrate Black music and local talent. Her live dates often include intimate listening rooms and outdoor festival stages that attract diverse audiences across the tri‑state area \n\n\n\nBring your family\, bring your spirit\, and come celebrate with us. The doors are open\, and the community is gathering. \n\n\n\nRev. Eyesha K. Marable — Pastor\, Artist & Worship Visionary\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nRev. Eyesha K. Marable is a dynamic pastor\, artist\, and cultural architect whose ministry bridges faith\, creativity\, and community transformation. As the Pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Millburn\, NJ\, she leads with a spirit of joy\, innovation\, and deep spiritual grounding—cultivating a worship culture where artistry and anointing meet. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA gifted dancer\, writer\, producer\, and worship curator\, Rev. Marable has spent more than two decades shaping faith‑based arts across the region. She is the Founder of the National Liturgical Dance Network\, creator of signature programs such as The Gathering\, the Dance Ministry Institute\, and long‑time leader within NJPAC’s Faith‑Based Initiatives\, where she has empowered thousands of artists\, youth\, and community members to express their faith through movement\, music\, and storytelling. \n\n\n\nHer ministry is rooted in service and community uplift. Whether preaching\, producing\, or mentoring emerging artists\, Rev. Marable brings a rare blend of spiritual depth\, cultural insight\, and creative excellence. Her work continues to inspire congregations\, strengthen neighborhoods\, and elevate the role of sacred arts in worship. \n\n\n\nAt Blues & Blessings\, Rev. Marable brings her signature presence—warm\, visionary\, and Spirit‑led—guiding the congregation into a space where music\, testimony\, and celebration come alive. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/blues-and-blessings-presents-dermel-warren-at-mt-zion-ame-milburn/ LOCATION:Mt Zion AME Church\, 54 Church Street\, Milburn\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Blues,Blues and Blessings,Commnity,jazz Appreciation Month,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Blues-and-Blessings-Dermel-Warren.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260406T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260406T203000 DTSTAMP:20251228T052811Z CREATED:20251129T053729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T052811Z UID:10002591-1775502000-1775507400@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! Big Band at Clements Place DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-at-clements-place-7/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260327T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260327T220000 DTSTAMP:20260325T005714Z CREATED:20260325T005710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T005714Z UID:10002655-1774639800-1774648800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Rutgers IJS Presents Alexis Morrast and Friends DESCRIPTION:Come hang out with Alexis Morrast live at Rutgers IJS and experience a night of pure vocal brilliance and unforgettable jazz energy.\n\n\n\nJoin us in person for an exciting event with Alexis Morrast brought to you by Rutgers IJS. Come connect\, learn\, and enjoy this unique experience up close. Don’t miss out on an amazing opportunity to see Alexis Morrast live and engage with the community. It’s gonna be fun and informative—see you there! \n\n\nGet ready for a powerful evening as Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies welcome the extraordinary Alexis Morrast back to the stage. A radiant young vocalist with a voice far beyond her years\, Alexis brings a rare blend of elegance\, soul\, and effortless swing that has captivated audiences around the world. From winning Showtime at the Apollo to sharing stages with jazz greats\, she continues to rise as one of the most compelling voices of her generation. \nThis performance invites you into an intimate listening experience where Alexis’s warmth\, storytelling\, and vocal mastery shine at their fullest. Surrounded by top‑tier musicians and the unmatched atmosphere of Rutgers IJS\, she delivers a night of music that feels both timeless and boldly alive. Come be part of an evening filled with heart\, artistry\, and the unmistakable magic that only Alexis Morrast can bring. \n\n\n\n\nRSVP REQUIRED CLICK HERE TO REGISTER URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/rutgers-ijs-presents-alexis-morrast-and-friends/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Clements Place Jazz,Live Music,NEO Soul ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Alexis-Morrast-Singer.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T133000 DTSTAMP:20260306T231946Z CREATED:20260306T231946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T231946Z UID:10002646-1772969400-1772976600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Blues and Blessings Presents the Soulful Alexis Morrast at Mt Zion AME Milburn DESCRIPTION:Join Us for Blues & Blessings Sunday\n\n\n\nGet ready for a soul‑stirring Blues & Blessings led by Rev. Eyesha Marable\, as we welcome Alexis Morrast — an anointed young vocalist whose soulful\, worship‑filled sound lifts every heart. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nBlues & Blessings Sunday is where music\, ministry\, and community meet in the most beautiful way. Each first Sunday\, the sanctuary at Mt. Zion AME Milburn fills with soulful sound\, heartfelt worship\, and the kind of joy that brings people together. It’s a space where blues and jazz carries our stories\, blessings lift our spirits\, and gifted artists help us feel the spirits presence through every note. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the first time\, Blues & Blessings offers a warm\, spirit‑centered experience that reminds us of the power of gathering\, singing\, and celebrating faith as one family. This month’s service promises to be especially moving\, and we can’t wait to welcome you into the flow. \n\n\n\nAlexis Morrast\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlexis Morrast is a nationally acclaimed young vocalist whose rich tone\, effortless control\, and soulful phrasing have made her one of the most exciting rising voices in jazz and inspirational music today. A two‑time Apollo Theater winner and “Young Phenom” celebrated by audiences across the country\, she brings a rare blend of maturity\, warmth\, and spiritual depth to every performance. Whether interpreting jazz standards\, delivering blues‑infused storytelling\, or offering uplifting songs of faith\, Morrast captivates listeners with a voice that feels both timeless and fresh. Her growing body of work reflects a commitment to excellence\, authenticity\, and artistry\, positioning her as a powerful new force carrying the tradition forward while inspiring a new generation. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPhil Bingham is a gifted pianist\, arranger\, and musical director whose soulful touch and deep musical sensitivity have made him a trusted presence in both jazz and worship settings. Rooted in the gospel tradition and shaped by the harmonic language of masters like Barry Harris\, Phil brings warmth\, elegance\, and spiritual depth to every performance. His playing blends blues feeling\, jazz sophistication\, and a prayerful spirit that lifts singers and congregations alike. Whether on the bandstand or in the sanctuary\, Phil creates musical moments that open the heart and invite listeners into a deeper experience of sound\, faith\, and community. \n\n\n\nRev. Eyesha Marable\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRev. Eyesha K. Marable is an ordained Itinerant Elder\, pastor\, producer\, and visionary arts‑in‑ministry leader whose work bridges worship\, culture\, and community uplift. As Assistant Vice President of Community Engagement at NJPAC and founding director of its Faith‑Based Initiative\, she has spent decades empowering artists\, nurturing youth\, and shaping sacred‑arts programs that honor both heritage and innovation. Through dance\, poetry\, worship curation\, and spiritual leadership at Mt. Zion AME Church\, Rev. Marable creates transformative spaces where faith\, creativity\, and community come alive. Her ministry continues to inspire\, uplift\, and build bridges across generations. \n\n\n\n\n\nBlues and Blessings Presents: Alexis Morrast — Spirit‑Led and Soulful Click for Tickets\, Sunday\, Mar 8 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm | Eventbrite \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGregory Burrus is a cultural producer\, live‑music ambassador\, and community storyteller dedicated to elevating artists\, preserving legacy\, and bringing people together through the power of music. As the driving force behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, he curates and promotes jazz\, blues\, and community‑centered events for organizations including Rutgers IJS\, Clements Place Jazz\, and partners across New Jersey and New York. Known for his collaborative spirit and deep commitment to artist heritage\, Gregory shapes narratives that honor tradition while building vibrant\, connected audiences. His work continues to strengthen the region’s cultural landscape—one event\, one story\, and one community at a time. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/blues-and-blessings-presents-the-soulful-alexis-morrast-at-mt-zion-ame-milburn/ LOCATION:Mt Zion AME Church\, 54 Church Street\, Milburn\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Blues,Live Music,Pianist,Sunday Jazz ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Alexis-Morrast-Blues-and-Blessings-1-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260306T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260306T220000 DTSTAMP:20260226T033218Z CREATED:20260226T033218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T033218Z UID:10002635-1772825400-1772834400@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Rutgers IJS Presents Dave Schumacher and Cubeye CD Pre-release Agua Con Gas DESCRIPTION:Two cutting‑edge ensembles celebrate a bold new recording at the crossroads of jazz and global groove.\n\n\n\nGet ready for an awesome night with Imateya and Cubeye as they drop their new CD Agua Con Gas live! Come hang out in person and enjoy fresh vibes\, great tunes\, and a fun crowd. Don’t miss this epic release event brought to you by Rutgers IJS! \n\n\nRutgers IJS Presents Dave Schumacher and Cubeye CD Pre-release – Agua Con Gas\n \nA night of deep groove\, global rhythm\, and fearless improvisation arrives at Rutgers University–Newark as the Institute of Jazz Studies proudly presents Cubeye in celebration of their electrifying new release\, Agua Con Gas. \nVeteran baritone saxophonist Dave Schumacher brings his all star ensemble\, Cubeye\, to Clement’s for his new CD release -“Smokin’ in the Sky” \n \nABOUT DAVE SCHUMACHER \nAs a freelance Baritone Saxophonist\, Chicago native Dave Schumacher has been active on the New York scene for more than 40 years. He has performed for audiences in more than 465 cities in 41 countries on 5 continents. As a member of Lionel Hampton’s Orchestra from 1983 to 1987 he toured the Americas and Europe. He again toured with Hamp in 1988 and 1989. A highlight in Dave’s career was traveling with the Art Blakey Big Band to Japan in 1987 to perform at the Mt. Fuji Jazz Festival. \nDave was an original member of Harry Connick\, Jr.’s Orchestra from its beginnings in 1990 until 2009. He has thrilled audiences touring with Harry in North America\, Europe\, Asia (Japan\, China\, Malaysia\, Singapore\, the Philippines and South Korea) and Australia. His baritone sax can be heard on each of these Harry Connick\, Jr.\, Columbia recordings: Oh My NOLA\, Chanson du Vieux Carré\, Only You\, When My Heart Finds Christmas\, Come By Me\, Blue Light Red Light\, Songs I Heard\, Thou Shalt Not\, What A Night and others. \nAs a freelance artist Dave was a touring member of the T.S. Monk on Monk Ensemble from 1999 to 2000 touring the U.S. and Europe\, as well as touring Europe with the Tom Harrell Octet in 2000. Dave has also done freelance work with Dizzy Gillespie\, Howard Johnson’s Beartones\, Nicholas Payton’s Louis Armstrong Tribute Big Band\, Joe Lovano’s 52nd Street Themes Nonet\, the groups of Jack McDuff\, Eddie Gladden\, Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra\, Joey DeFrancesco\, Chico O’Farrill’s Afro-Cuban Big Band\, Tom Harrell Big Band\, Lin Halliday and many others. \nAs a leader and composer/arranger\, Dave has recorded 3 CD’s – Every Corner and from Another Life on the Amosaya Music label and Endangered Species on Summit Records. Dave has recorded as a sideman with Lionel Hampton\, Harry Connick\, Jr.\, Tom Harrell\, Scott Whitfield\, Jason Lindner\, Mel Torme\, Ben Wolfe and vocalist Billy Carrion among others. \nSchumacher has received two performance grants from The National Endowment for the Arts. \nAs an educator Dave is currently the Director of Jazz Workshops for the New Jersey Youth Symphony. Dave was the inaugural Director of the New Jersey Youth Symphony Jazz program in 2013. He also maintains an active studio of private students of saxophone\, clarinet\, flute and improvisation at the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts in New Jersey. Dave has been teaching private students for close to forty years. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/rutgers-ijs-presents-dave-schumacher-and-cubeye-cd-pre-release-agua-con-gas/ LOCATION:Clement’s Place\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, 07102\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/bbe4c6365962c4d9e800f060d4ddede2-el36hf.tmp_.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260302T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260302T203000 DTSTAMP:20251228T052544Z CREATED:20251129T053730Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T052544Z UID:10002589-1772478000-1772483400@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! Big Band at Clements Place DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-at-clements-place-8/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T133000 DTSTAMP:20260112T054246Z CREATED:20260112T054243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T054246Z UID:10002624-1771759800-1771767000@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Jesus and Jazz feat Cyrus Chestnut John Lee Winard Harper & Lynette Sheard Mt Zion AME Church Milburn NJ DESCRIPTION:Join us for a radiant morning of Jesus and Jazz\, where spirit and song rise together as the incomparable pianist Cyrus Chestnut\, Grammy‑winning producer\, bassist John Lee\, and master drummer Winard Harper fill Mount Zion AME Church with music that stirs the soul and lifts the heart. It will be a gathering of faith\, fellowship\, and sound — where sound becomes sanctuary and every rhythm opens a new door to praise. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSpace is limited so please let us know if we should expect you by reserving your space via eventbrite RSVP or email at mtzionamemillburn@gmail.com \n\n\n\n. \n\n\n\nJoining us\n\n\n\nCyrus Chestnut\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCyrus Chestnut is one of the most gifted and innovative jazz pianists of his generation\, celebrated for a style that seamlessly blends gospel\, classical influences\, and straight‑ahead jazz. Born in Baltimore\, Maryland in 1963\, he grew up in a deeply musical church family\, first learning piano at age seven and playing in worship services at Mount Calvary Baptist Church. This early grounding in gospel shaped the soulful\, spiritual depth that defines his sound today. \n\n\n\nA graduate of the Berklee College of Music\, Chestnut has built a remarkable career as a pianist\, composer\, and producer\, performing internationally and recording for major labels including Atlantic\, Warner Bros.\, and TelarcWikipedia. His playing has been praised for its emotional power and fearless creativity; Time magazine once wrote that Chestnut’s brilliance comes from “a willingness to abandon notes and play space”. \n\n\n\nAcross decades of acclaimed performances\, Cyrus Chestnut has become a defining voice in contemporary jazz—an artist whose music carries the warmth of gospel\, the sophistication of jazz tradition\, and the expressive freedom of a true improviser. \n\n\n\nJohn Lee\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn Lee is an accomplished bassist\, Grammy-winning record producer\, and audio engineer. \n\n\n\nEarly Life and Education: \n\n\n\n\nJohn Gregory Lee was born on June 28\, 1952\, in Boston\, Massachusetts\, United States. His parents were Rev. John W. Lee\, an African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) minister\, and Harriet Holland Lee\, a career social worker.\n\n\n\nHe grew up in Greenwich\, Connecticut\, Amityville\, New York\, and Philadelphia\, Pennsylvania.\n\n\n\nJohn began learning the string bass in 1962 under the guidance of Carolyn Lush.\n\n\n\nHe attended Philadelphia’s Overbrook High School and later studied at the Philadelphia Musical Academy (now the University of the Arts) from 1970 to 1972.\n\n\n\nDuring this time\, he also performed with musicians like Carlos Garnett and Joe Henderson.\n\n\n\nIn August 1972\, John and drummer Gerry Brown relocated to Europe\, where they toured and recorded with various bands.\n\n\n\n\nCareer Highlights: \n\n\n\nAfter moving to New York City in 1974\, John Lee collaborated with artists such as Joe Henderson\, Lonnie Liston Smith\, and Norman Connors. \n\n\n\n\nHe joined Larry Coryell’s band\, The Eleventh House\, in December 1974.\n\n\n\nIn 1975\, Lee and Gerry Brown signed a recording contract with Blue Note Records and formed their own working band.\n\n\n\nLee began producing records in 1977.\n\n\n\nFrom 1982 to 1984\, he worked with jazz pianist McCoy Tyner.\n\n\n\nIn July 1984\, John Lee became Dizzy Gillespie’s bassist\, touring and recording with Dizzy’s Quintet\, Big Band\, and the Grammy-winning “United Nation Orchestra.”\n\n\n\nLee has performed in concert halls and jazz clubs across more than 100 countries worldwide.\n\n\n\nHe has also played with notable artists like Sonny Rollins\, James Moody\, Aretha Franklin\, Jimmy Heath\, Pharoah Sanders\, and many others.\n\n\n\nLee was a founding member of “The Fantasy Band” (1993-1996) alongside Chuck Loeb\, Marion Meadows\, and Dave Samuels.\n\n\n\nSince 1996\, he has been the director and bassist of the Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars\, the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band\, and the Dizzy Gillespie Afro-Cuban Experience.\n\n\n\n\nJohn Lee’s contributions to jazz music and his extensive work as a bassist\, producer\, and recording engineer have left a lasting impact on the music industry. \n\n\n\nWinard Harper\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWinard Harper is an acclaimed jazz drummer\, bandleader\, and educator whose dynamic style and deep musicality have made him one of the most respected percussion voices in modern jazz. Born in Baltimore\, Maryland in 1962\, Harper showed prodigious talent early—first discovered tapping rhythms on cans as a toddler and performing with his older brother Danny’s band by age five. winardharperjazz.com. His artistic path was set at age eleven when he heard Clifford Brown and Max Roach’s recording of “Jordu\,” a moment that awakened his lifelong devotion to jazz. \n\n\n\nHarper’s professional rise began in the early 1980s with major gigs alongside Dexter Gordon and Johnny Griffin. His career accelerated further during four formative years with Betty Carter\, whose demanding bandstand sharpened his virtuosity\, showmanship\, and musical sensitivity. From 1988 to 1993\, he co‑led the celebrated group The Harper Brothers with his brother\, trumpeter Philip Harper\, performing with a powerhouse lineup of rising jazz stars including Javon Jackson\, Justin Robinson\, Walter Blanding\, and Stephen Scott. \n\n\n\nAs a leader\, Harper has recorded multiple albums\, led acclaimed ensembles including his sextet and Jeli Posse\, and performed at major venues such as Lincoln Center. His playing is known for its explosive creativity\, mastery of global percussion traditions\, and deep commitment to the swing and bebop lineage. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a remarkably versatile vocalist with a stunning five‑octave range\, celebrated for her soulful command of Jazz\, R&B\, Gospel\, Soul\, and Pop. She is also an accomplished actor\, producer\, and director whose performances have been praised in The New York Times\, The Record\, and The Chronicle. The Star‑Ledger and countless fans often say that her voice “reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” \n\n\n\nSheard serves as a Director with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey\, where she uses the arts as a powerful tool for healing\, empowerment\, and community connection. Her commitment to service extends to her work as a founding member of The Guiding Stars\, a medical‑missions ensemble of professional performers who uplift veterans\, children\, and communities in need. Her performances have helped raise thousands of dollars for Hurricane Katrina survivors\, Haitian relief efforts\, the Red Cross\, and numerous local charities. \n\n\n\nA dynamic presence on stage\, her theater credits include principal roles in Dreamgirls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Swing\, Aida\, and an encore performance as Lena Younger (Mama) in A Raisin in the Sun. She also serves as the primary vocalist for the Jesus & Jazz series\, where her voice brings warmth\, spirit\, and emotional depth to this celebrated worship‑and‑music experience. \n\n\n\nAs a board member of Pleasant Valley Productions\, she has helped produce a range of successful events at the Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center (OSPAC) in West Orange\, NJ\, further demonstrating her leadership in the arts and her commitment to community enrichment. \n\n\n\n——————— \n\n\n\nEvent Free Open to All Please register and Let us know you are coming to join us.. \n\n\n\n———————————————————————————————– \n\n\n\nJesus and Jazz Sessions are held monthly on the 4th Sunday of the Month and are curated by Gregory Burrus Productions. \n\n\n\nPlease join us. \n\n\n\n ​Jesus and Jazz: Where Spirit Meets Sound\n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Rev. Eyesha Marable – Gregory Burrus\n\n\n\n\nEyesha Marable – A dynamic cultural curator and spiritual leader\, Eyesha brings passion\, purpose\, and prophetic vision to every gathering. Her work bridges gospel truth with artistic excellence\, creating spaces where healing and creativity flourish. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Renowned pianist\, conductor\, and arranger\, Phil is the musical heartbeat of Jesus and Jazz. His spirit-led compositions and performances transform every sanctuary into a stage for praise\, improvisation\, and divine inspiration. \n\n\n\nGregory Burrus – The master connector and curator behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, Gregory orchestrates this event with joy\, precision\, and deep community love. His storytelling and artist advocacy ensure that every voice is honored and every moment resonates. \n\n\n\nTogether\, these leaders have crafted an evening where jazz becomes ministry\, and every note is a prayer. Join us for Jesus and Jazz—a celebration of legacy\, liberation\, and the living Word through music. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/jesus-and-jazz-feat-cyrus-chestnut-john-lee-winard-harper-lynette-sheard-mt-zion-ame-church-milburn-nj/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Jesus-and-Jazz-2024.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260202T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260202T203000 DTSTAMP:20251228T052309Z CREATED:20251129T053730Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T052309Z UID:10002590-1770058800-1770064200@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lance Bryant & Shout! Big Band at Clements Place DESCRIPTION:SHOUT! – Clem’s resident big band led by master saxist and composer Lance Bryant return for their monthly roof raising performance \n\n\n\n\n\nRSVP Required \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\n \n\n\n\nSHOUT! features some of the finest musicians in the NY/NJ area in a modern big band setting performing hip arrangements of new jazz classics and originals by master arranger and tenor saxophonist Lance Bryant. This full sixteen piece big band performs compositions and arrangements by Lance and occasionally arrangements of his colleagues. Lance has been arranging for other artists and bands for over twenty five years\, starting with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. “Lionel Hampton always encouraged me to keep writing\,” Lance says of the iconic Jazz legend. “I found that when commissioned to write for artists or band leaders there was often some level of restrictions or parameters to adhere to.” That was until Lance was commissioned to write a program of arrangements to be performed live by vocalist Carla Cook and the NDR Big Band in Hamburg\, Germany in 2002. Given ample freedom to create by Carla\, Lance wrote nine arrangements for the program. “I was so pleased with the results\, I never forgot that feeling.” In the Spring of 2022 Lance finally decided to start his own band. “For me there’s nothing like that range of power and expression we can achieve with sixteen great musicians. Not to mention the sense of community and family that we enjoy working as a big band.” \n\n\n\nRegular Members: \n\n\n\nLance Bryant – conductor\, arranger\, composer and saxophone \n\n\n\nSaxophones: Matt Hong\, Zoe Obadia\, Craig Rivers\, Mike Lee\, David Schumacher \n\n\n\nTrombones: Juanga Lakunza\, Peter Lin\, Clarence Banks\, James Borowski \n\n\n\nTrumpets: Nathan Eklund\, Eddie Allen\, Ted Chub\, Bill Mobley \n\n\n\nRhythm: Oscar Perez\, Caylen Bryant\, Jerome Jennings \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nABOUT LANCE BRYANT \n\n\n\nMulti-hyphenate composer\, arranger\, bandleader\, tenor and soprano saxophonist Lance Bryant performs in the New York/New Jersey area. When Lance is not performing his own music he is touring with revered South African pianist\, Abdullah Ibrahim\, performing and recording as saxophonist with fellow New York area players\, teaching and writing commissioned arrangements for other artists and bands. Lance comes out of Markham\, Illinois\, a small town near Chicago. He received his formal music education at Berklee College of Music in Boston\, MA\, where he studied saxophone\, composition and arranging. After moving to New York City in the mid. 1980s\, Lance continued his education\, studying saxophone and arranging privately with Frank Foster\, the former director of the Count Basie Orchestra. He also studied composition with Bruce Adolphe of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Society. In 1990 Lance began his decade-long relationship with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and in 1993 became the Orchestra’s Musical Director and Principal Arranger. Lance also made his film debut in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X and traveled extensively with Phyllis Hyman\, Jon Hendricks\, Pete “LaRocca” Sims\, Wallace Roney\, Abdulah Ibrahim\, Bootsy Collins\, James Williams and others. In the early summer of 2000\, Lance was selected as an on-stage musician for the Broadway production of the musical review Swing!\, which received six Toni nominations. Throughout his music career\, Lance’s talents as an arranger\, composer\, saxophonist and vocalist have been featured on many projects like: For the Love of Jazz on Mojazz Records (Lionel Hampton)\, Dem Bones and Simply Natural on MaxJazz Records for Grammy nominated vocalist Carla Cook\, Swingin’ Away for the George Gee Swing Orchestra\, and more recently on drummer Yoron Israel’s latest release\, Visions\, the Music of Stevie Wonder. \n\n\n\nLance’s earliest musical experience was established while growing up in the Baptist Church. His connection with spirituality and music has endured. In 2000 to 2006 Lance served as Director of Instrumental Music at Fountain Baptist Church in Summit\, NJ. Between 2006 and 2013\, while living in Massachusetts\, Lance served as Minister of Music for Andover Baptist Church in Andover MA\, leading worship services with gospel and sometimes jazz music. In 2002 he released Psalm\, the first of four Cds featuring original songs\, and jazz arrangements of hymns and Spirituals. \n\n\n\nAs an educator Lance’s recent teaching work has included woodwind instructor for Covenant Christian Academy in Peabody\, MA\, director of the Phillips Academy Gospel Choir in Andover MA\, and Berklee’s Saxophone Weekend for the Berklee College of Music summer program where Lance taught master classes\, group lessons\, jazz theory\, improvisation and ensemble. Lance also served on the faculty or Jazz At Lincoln Center’s educational department working with it’s outreach program for youth throughout New York City. \n\n\n\nIn 2014-15 Lance performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on the Broadway musical hit After Midnight. Starting in Spring of 2016 he performed in the orchestra of the Broadway production of George C. Wolfe’s “Shuffle Along …” featuring Tony Award winner Audra MacDonald and the choreography of Savion Glover. When he’s not touring with Abdullah Ibrahim and Ekaya\, Lance continues to teach and perform in the New York and northern New Jersey areas as a solo artist and in bands that include Andy Farber and his Orchestra\, and the New Lionel Hampton Big Band featuring Jason Marsalis. \n\n\n\nRealizing the importance of spirituality and the blues as healing and empowering forces\, Lance always makes sure to incorporate these elements from his cultural background into his music. He believes that the larger community of the world is in need of that same healing and empowering influence. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lance-bryant-shout-big-band-at-clements-place-9/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Clements Place Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lance-Bryant-Shout-Big-Band-2022-11-28-211425.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T210000 DTSTAMP:20260102T034610Z CREATED:20260102T032436Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T034610Z UID:10002619-1769974200-1769979600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Melba Moore -Five Octaves of Glory: Tony Award–Winning Legend & Three ‑ Time Grammy Nominee Comes to SOPAC DESCRIPTION:An Evening With Melba Moore Coming to New Jersey’s South Orange Performing Arts Center in February 2026 \n\n\n\n\n\nTony Award winning legend and three-time Grammy nominee Melba Moore will bring an evening of song to the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on February 1st\, 2026\, at 7:30 pm ET. The venue is located at One SOPAC Way in South Orange\, NJ. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMs. Moore will be performing a range of classics\, from her years on Broadway in “Hair” and “Purlie” (the latter earning a Tony Award win)\, to the R&B/Pop hits of the 70’s and 80’s such as “You Stepped Into My Life” and “Love’s Comin’ At Cha.” \n\n\n\nJoining Ms. Moore on this evening of music is emcee Lenny Green from New York City’s WBLS-FM and opening act Jeff Redd\, known for the 90’s hit\, “You Called and Told Me.” \n\n\n\n\n\nFor more information regarding the concert\, click the link below – URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/melba-moore-five-octaves-of-glory-tony-award-winning-legend-three-time-grammy-nominee-comes-to-sopac/ LOCATION:SOPAC – South Orange Performing Arts Center\, One SOPAC Way\, \, South Orange\, New Jersey\, 07079\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music,R&b,SOPAC ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/MELBA-JEFF-LENNY-SOPAC.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251228T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251228T133000 DTSTAMP:20251223T084944Z CREATED:20251217T192737Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T084944Z UID:10002611-1766921400-1766928600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Jesus and Jazz featuring Nat Adderley Jr Trio at Mt Zion AME Church Milburn NJ DESCRIPTION:Experience an unforgettable service where faith finds its rhythm\, swing lifts the spirit\, and every note becomes a prayer. The December 2025 edition of Jesus and Jazz welcomes the legendary Nat Adderley Jr. & Friends — a powerhouse ensemble whose music uplifts\, inspires\, and reaches beyond the moment. \n\n\n\n\n\nJesus and Jazz feat Nat Adderley Jr Steve Johns Mike Lee and Chris Berger Tickets\, Sun\, Dec 28\, 2025 at 11:30 AM | Eventbrite \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nJoining us\n\n\n\nNat Adderley Jr. — Piano\, Composer & Arranger \n\n\n\nNat Adderley Jr. is a renowned pianist\, composer\, and arranger whose work has shaped the sound of modern American music. Best known as the longtime music director for Luther Vandross\, he crafted many of the arrangements that defined Vandross’s iconic sound — from lush ballads to soaring anthems — leaving an indelible mark on R&B\, soul\, and contemporary jazz. \n\n\n\nBorn into one of the most celebrated families in jazz\, Nat is the son of cornetist Nat Adderley and the nephew of saxophone legend Cannonball Adderley. That lineage is not just historical — it lives in his phrasing\, his harmonic sensibility\, and his deep respect for melody and groove. His early compositions were recorded by the Adderley Brothers themselves\, signaling a prodigious talent destined to carry the family flame forward. \n\n\n\nNat has performed and recorded with a wide spectrum of artists across jazz\, soul\, and pop — including Luther Vandross\, Aretha Franklin\, Natalie Cole\, Kirk Whalum\, Valerie Simpson and the Adderley family legacy — bringing his unmistakable touch to every collaboration.. His playing is marked by warmth\, clarity\, and emotional intelligence\, whether he’s delivering a tender ballad or driving a hard‑swinging groove. \n\n\n\nIn recent years\, Nat has become a beloved presence in sacred and community‑centered music\, including his powerful contributions to Jesus & Jazz\, where he blends faith\, heritage\, and artistry with effortless grace. His performances uplift\, inspire\, and remind audiences of the spiritual roots that run through Black American music. \n\n\n\nA master musician with a legacy all his own\, Nat Adderley Jr. continues to honor the past while shaping the sound of the present — a true keeper of the flame. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nSteve Johns – Drums \n\n\n\nSteve Johns is a deeply swinging\, highly versatile drummer whose career spans more than three decades across the highest levels of jazz performance. Known for his impeccable time\, warm groove\, and intuitive musicality\, he has become a trusted rhythmic anchor for some of the most respected names in the music. \n\n\n\nA graduate of the New England Conservatory\, Johns quickly established himself on the New York scene\, performing and recording with Sonny Fortune\, Randy Brecker\, Benny Carter\, Stanley Turrentine\, Jimmy Heath\, and a long list of jazz luminaries. His playing reflects a rare balance of power and subtlety — the ability to drive a band with authority while shaping every moment with sensitivity and taste. \n\n\n\nBeyond his work as a sideman\, Steve is a dedicated educator and mentor\, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of musicians through workshops\, masterclasses\, and university residencies. Whether on festival stages\, in intimate clubs\, or in the classroom\, he brings the same commitment to swing\, clarity\, and musical honesty. \n\n\n\nA drummer of depth\, experience\, and soul\, Steve Johns continues to be a vital force in contemporary jazz — a musician whose presence elevates every ensemble he joins. \n\n\n\nMike Lee – Saxophone \n\n\n\nOriginally from Cleveland\, Ohio\, saxophonist Mike Lee has established himself in the New York City/Northern New Jersey area for many years. He balances a thriving performing career with a distinguished teaching resume. He performs regularly in New York City as a member of a wide array of jazz ensembles. His recent associations include The Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet\, The Frank Lacy Sextet\, The Roy Hargrove Legacy Big Band\, Josh Evans Big Band\, The Jimmy Heath Orchestra\, The Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra\, Wallace Roney’s Universe Orchestra\, The Oliver Lake Big Band\, The Loston Harris Trio\, Dave Stryker\, and TS Monk. He performs regularly at venues such as The Bluenote\, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola\, Smalls\, The Jazz Gallery\, Fat Cat\, and Bemelman’s Bar at the Carlyle Hotel. Recent tours have taken him up and down the East Coast\, to Italy\, France\, California and Beijing\, China. \n\n\n\nMike Lee is Professor of Jazz Saxophone at The John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University. In 2009\, Lee helped found and develop Jazz House Kid’s in-house jazz education program. As the instructor of the first class (2009) at the Jazz House and Director of the JHK Summer Workshop (2010-2012) he oversaw the growth of the program from one class to a thriving jazz school. Mike’s private students have also excelled winning national awards from the Grammy Band\, Next Generation Jazz Orchestra\, Downbeat Magazine\, and Young Arts. He has had several students go on to attend The Juilliard School\, Berklee College of Music\, Manhattan School of Music\, William Paterson\, Rutgers\, Miami University\, and Northwestern University. Lee has presented clinics and workshops throughout the country. Mike plays P. Mauriat saxophones and flute and use Vandoren mouthpieces and reeds. \n\n\n\nLee’s musical accomplishments are shared and enjoyed by his musical family. Along with his wife\, Violinist Rebecca Harris-Lee\, they have raised three active young musicians. Their oldest son\, saxophonist Julian\, a graduate of The Juilliard School\, has a thriving career in and around New York City having performed with ensembles including the Mingus Big Band\, Wynton Marsalis Quintet\, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Drummer Matthew Lee\, also a recent Juilliard Graduate has performed and recorded extensively with bassist Russel Hall. He has performed with Emmet Cohen on “Live at Emmet’s Place.” Their Daughter\, Violinist Jacquie Lee\, is making a name for herself in New York City as a student at Manhattan School of Music. \n\n\n\nChris Berger – Bass \n\n\n\nBassist Chris Berger Studied jazz and classical music at Bowling Green State University in Ohio. After college he spent one year touring the world and recording with legendary trumpeter Maynard Ferguson. Since moving to NYC in 1994 he has worked and or recorded with luminaries such as Herb Ellis\, James Williams\, Jimmy Cobb\, Billy Hart\, Hubert Laws\, Houston Person\, Jeff “Tain” Watts\,R and Junior Mance. To name a few. Recently Chris has been touring and recording with TS Monk. As well as working with Nat Adderley Jr. In addition he is continuing his studies as a student of master bassist Ron Carter. \n\n\n\n ​Jesus and Jazz: Where Spirit Meets Sound\n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Rev. Eyesha Marable – Gregory Burrus\n\n\n\n\nEyesha Marable – A dynamic cultural curator and spiritual leader\, Eyesha brings passion\, purpose\, and prophetic vision to every gathering. Her work bridges gospel truth with artistic excellence\, creating spaces where healing and creativity flourish. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Renowned pianist\, conductor\, and arranger\, Phil is the musical heartbeat of Jesus and Jazz. His spirit-led compositions and performances transform every sanctuary into a stage for praise\, improvisation\, and divine inspiration. \n\n\n\nGregory Burrus – The master connector and curator behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, Gregory orchestrates this event with joy\, precision\, and deep community love. His storytelling and artist advocacy ensure that every voice is honored and every moment resonates. \n\n\n\nTogether\, these leaders have crafted an evening where jazz becomes ministry\, and every note is a prayer. Join us for Jesus and Jazz—a celebration of legacy\, liberation\, and the living Word through music. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/jesus-and-jazz-featuring-nat-adderley-jr-trio-at-mt-zion-ame-church-milburn-nj/ LOCATION:Clements Place Jazz IJS – Ruth Bader Ginsburg Building\, 15 Washington Street\, Newark\, NJ\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Eventbrite-Sq-Jesus-and-Jazz-2025-December-2160-x-1080-px.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251123T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251123T133000 DTSTAMP:20251028T015726Z CREATED:20251028T010544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T015726Z UID:10002567-1763897400-1763904600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Jesus and Jazz featuring Bradford Hayes Trio at Mt Zion AME Church Milburn NJ DESCRIPTION:Join us for a memorable and inspiring service where faith meets swing and every note is a prayer. The November 2025 edition of Jesus and Jazz brings together a stellar lineup of local artists whose music uplifts\, inspires\, and transcends. \n\n\n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nSaxophonist Bradford Hayes  ​\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n​Bradford Hayes is a commanding voice on the Northeastern jazz scene\, known for his soulful saxophone stylings and decades-long dedication to musical excellence. A native of Dinwiddie County\, Virginia\, Hayes has graced legendary stages including Birdland\, Beacon Theatre\, and L’Entrepot in Paris\, captivating audiences with a sound that bridges tradition and innovation. \n\n\n\nWith over 30 years as a music educator in the Newark\, NJ public school system\, Hayes has shaped generations of young musicians while continuing to perform and record with some of jazz’s most revered artists. His collaborations span a who’s who of jazz royalty—Yusef Lateef\, Jimmy Heath\, Al Grey\, Rufus Reid\, Ray Bryant\, Dr. Lonnie Smith\, and many more. \n\n\n\nHayes leads his own ensembles\, including the Bradford Hayes Quartet\, delivering dynamic performances that blend straight-ahead jazz with global influences. Whether opening for Gerald Albright or headlining festivals like the Branford Jazz Series\, his presence is magnetic\, his tone unmistakable. \n\n\n\nOffstage\, Hayes is a passionate advocate for arts education and community engagement\, embodying the spirit of jazz as both a cultural force and a personal calling. His artistry continues to inspire\, uplift\, and groove—one note at a time.  \n\n\n\nJoining on stage are:\n\n\n\nGordon Lane\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGordon Lane – Drums Gordon Lane is a highly respected presence on the jazz scene. The list of artists Gordon has performed with illuminates his skill and versatility. Some of the notables are: Ahmad Jamal\, Claudio Roditi\, Arthur Prysock\, Rhoda Scott\, Alvin Batiste\, James Moody\, Houston Person\, Freddy Cole\, Stanley Jordan\, Eric Reed\, Slide Hampton\, Donald Braden and Michel LeGrand. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nMatthew Smythe \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Smythe is a versatile organist whose soulful playing and harmonic depth have made him a standout voice in the tri-state jazz scene. Known for his work with the Bradford Hayes Organ Trio\, Smythe brings a rich blend of gospel\, jazz\, and classical influences to every performance\, weaving textures that elevate both ensemble and audience. \n\n\n\nHe’s performed at venues like The Puffin Cultural Forum and Westfield’s Jazz Appreciation Month celebration\, where his organ stylings—paired with Bradford Hayes on saxophone and Gordon Lane on drums—created a dynamic\, groove-driven experience. Smythe’s musicality shines in both live settings and studio recordings\, including his credited role as organist in the 2022 film After the Wait. \n\n\n\nWhether anchoring a trio or contributing to larger ensembles\, Matthew Smythe’s artistry reflects a deep reverence for tradition and a fearless embrace of improvisation. His sound is warm\, expressive\, and always in service of the music’s emotional core. \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic performer whose artistry bridges the sacred and the soulful. With a five-octave range and perfect pitch\, she brings spiritual depth and jazz brilliance to every stage—especially in her celebrated appearances with Jesus and Jazz\, a series blending worship\, rhythm\, and community uplift. \n\n\n\nA Newark-based artist\, Sheard is a versatile force: actor\, producer\, director\, vocal coach\, and mental health advocate. Her performances have graced venues like Birdland Jazz Club\, NJPAC\, SOPAC\, and Deer Head Inn\, earning acclaim from The New York Times\, Broadway World\, and The Star-Ledger\, which praised her voice for “reaching deep into one’s soul and finding a soft spot”. \n\n\n\nIn Jesus and Jazz\, Sheard’s vocals elevate the spiritual experience\, weaving gospel\, jazz\, and soul into a tapestry of praise. Whether performing with the Richard Baratta Quartet or the Brianne Ford Trio\, she transforms church sanctuaries into sanctuaries of sound—uniting congregations through music that heals\, inspires\, and celebrates divine harmony. \n\n\n\nHer theatrical credits include principal roles in Dream Girls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Swing\, Aida\, and For Colored Girls\, showcasing her range as both a singer and storyteller. Offstage\, she mentors emerging artists and advocates for mental wellness\, embodying the belief that music is both medicine and ministry. \n\n\n\nJesus and Jazz: Where Spirit Meets Sound\n\n\n\ngregry-burrus-eyesha-marable-phil-bongham-jesus-and-jazz\n\n\n\n\nEyesha Marable – A dynamic cultural curator and spiritual leader\, Eyesha brings passion\, purpose\, and prophetic vision to every gathering. Her work bridges gospel truth with artistic excellence\, creating spaces where healing and creativity flourish. \n\n\n\nPhil Bingham – Renowned pianist\, conductor\, and arranger\, Phil is the musical heartbeat of Jesus and Jazz. His spirit-led compositions and performances transform every sanctuary into a stage for praise\, improvisation\, and divine inspiration. \n\n\n\nGregory Burrus – The master connector and curator behind Gregory Burrus Productions\, Gregory orchestrates this event with joy\, precision\, and deep community love. His storytelling and artist advocacy ensure that every voice is honored and every moment resonates. \n\n\n\nTogether\, these leaders have crafted an evening where jazz becomes ministry\, and every note is a prayer. Join us for Jesus and Jazz—a celebration of legacy\, liberation\, and the living Word through music. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/join-us-jesus-and-jazz-featuring-bradford-hayes-trio-at-mt-zion-ame-church-milburn-nj/ LOCATION:New Jersey CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Jesus-and-Jazz-2025.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251011T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251011T180000 DTSTAMP:20251011T144217Z CREATED:20251011T144214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251011T144217Z UID:10002550-1760198400-1760205600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Lynette Sheard Live featuring MPack in Bradley Beach NJ Live Music Concert DESCRIPTION:CANCELLED DUE TO COASTAL STORM WARNINGS – \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard Live featuring MPack and they are bringing back the memories \n\n\n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a powerhouse of talent and purpose—a versatile vocalist\, award-winning actor\, producer\, director\, and vocal coach whose voice has been hailed as one that “reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot”. With a five-octave range and perfect pitch\, she commands the stage across genres including jazz\, R&B\, gospel\, soul\, and pop. \n\n\n\nHer theater credits span iconic productions like Dream Girls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Aida\, and Avenue Q\, where Broadway World declared her “fabulous with a voice that shakes the rafters”. \n\n\n\nOffstage\, Lynette is a passionate mental health advocate and Director of the New Jersey Mental Health Players\, blending art and education to break stigma and spark dialogue. The New Jersey Mental Health Players\, a nationally recognized\, interactive community education program under the Mental Health Association in New Jersey. For over two decades\, she has combined her artistic gifts with advocacy\, using performance to educate the public\, reduce stigma\, and promote emotional wellness. She is a certified trainer in Mental Health First Aid\, suicide prevention (QPR)\, trauma-informed care\, and crisis intervention\, and has reached tens of thousands through workshops\, webinars\, and live presentations \n\n\n\nA Newark native and featured artist in the Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz\, Lynette continues to inspire through performance\, mentorship\, and community leadership. Whether she’s lighting up a concert hall or leading a wellness workshop\, her impact is as deep as her voice is powerful. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLynette Sheard Live and MPack Band in Weequahic Park\, Newark\, NJ\n\n\n\nMPack Band is a genre-blending musical powerhouse led by multi-instrumentalist and producer Clarence “Groove Master” Conover. Based in Plainfield\, NJ\, MPack is more than a band—it’s a brand and a musical production enterprise known for delivering “Life Changing Sounds.” Their performances fuse jazz\, funk\, R&B\, blues\, and neo-soul into a dynamic experience that uplifts the spirit and moves the body. \n\n\n\nAt the heart of MPack’s sound is Patricia Walton\, the band’s soulful lead vocalist. Born in Germany\, raised in New York\, and now rooted in New Jersey\, Patricia has been singing since childhood. Her journey began in school choirs and gospel ensembles\, and evolved into fronting party and dance bands across NY\, NJ\, and PA. With a warm\, expressive voice that brings both depth and joy\, she now shines as MPack’s featured artist—delivering jazz\, blues\, and R&B performances that leave audiences smiling and swaying. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMPack Live in Maplewood Village Alliance Summer Streets Live Music\n\n\n\nTogether Lynette Sheard Live with MPack Band create a musical experience that’s thought-provoking\, groove-heavy\, and unforgettable. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-lynette-sheard-live-featuring-mpack-in-bradley-beach-nj-live-music-concert/ LOCATION:Riley Park\, Bradley Beach\, 615 Main St\, Bradley Beach\, NJ\, 07720\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Cancelled-Bradley-Beach-Oct-11-Live-Music-Event-Poster.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251004T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251004T180000 DTSTAMP:20250930T145627Z CREATED:20250823T153448Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T145627Z UID:10002505-1759593600-1759600800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Jersey Swamp Cats in Bradley Beach NJ Live Music DESCRIPTION:Jersey Swamp Cats Live\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Jersey Swamp Cats are a lively quartet from New Jersey\, known for their energetic blend of blues\, New Orleans R&B\, early rock ‘n’ roll\, rockabilly\, and jump blues. Their music is a mix of creative\, swampy renditions of classics by legends like Fats Domino\, Albert Collins\, and Professor Longhair\, along with original tracks that showcase their unique style. \n\n\n\nThe band features Gerry Gladston on piano\, Filthy Rich McPherson on guitar and vocals\, Chris Reardon on drums\, and Larry Ghiorsi on bass. Their debut album\, Go Cat Go\, released in 2019\, includes both covers and original songs\, such as “Cupcake” and “Shiny Gray Corvette\,” which highlight their playful and retro sound. They also incorporate elements of New Orleans jazz and blues\, with guest horn players adding a vibrant touch to their performances. \n\n\n\n\n View this post on Instagram URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-jersey-swamp-cats-in-bradley-beach-nj-live-music/ LOCATION:Riley Park\, Bradley Beach\, 615 Main St\, Bradley Beach\, NJ\, 07720\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bradley-Beach-Events-Jersey-Swamp-Cats-Oct-4-Instagram-Post.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250913T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250913T160000 DTSTAMP:20250910T201330Z CREATED:20250910T201250Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250910T201330Z UID:10002517-1757768400-1757779200@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Downtown Cranford featuring Nikki Briar in Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Nikki Briar in These Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown\n\n\n\n\n\nNIKKI BRIAR AND THE SWEETBRIARS bring a high-energy blend of country\, rock\, and Americana\, delivering powerhouse performances that get crowds dancing. Fronted by the charismatic and fearless Nikki Briar\, this band has become a staple in the country music scene\, sharing stages with national acts like Tim McGraw\, Billy Currington\, and Rodney Atkins. Known for their electrifying live shows\, tight musicianship\, and Jersey-girl grit\, Nikki Briar and The SweetBriars bring the perfect mix of Southern charm and Northeast attitude. Don’t miss their boot-stomping\, heart-pounding set live. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThese Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown\n\n\n\nThese Boots Were Made for Walkin’ Downtown returns this fall! Join us on Saturday\, September 13th\, for live music with Nikki Briar & the Sweetbriar Country Band\, Line Dancing\, Food Tour\, Mechanical Bull\, and more! Kick up your heels and come downtown for this fun and family friendly event! Thank you to Garlic Rose Bistro for their sponsorship of this event! URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-downtown-cranford-featuring-nikki-briar-in-boots-were-made-for-walkin-downtown/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/0914225-NikkiBriar-Country-Artists-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250828T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250828T200000 DTSTAMP:20250325T052317Z CREATED:20250325T052317Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T052317Z UID:10002374-1756404000-1756411200@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Burnside Manor DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Burnside Manor\n\n\n\n\n\nBurnside Manor is a local band from Cranford\, New Jersey\, known for their engaging performances at community events. They have been featured in events like the Cranford Centennial Village Group Music Fest and Porchfest\, showcasing their talent alongside other local bands. Their music contributes to the vibrant cultural scene in Cranford\, bringing people together through live performances. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nCranford is a walkable town\, so come early grab a bite from a local eatery and enjoy it while listening. \n\n\n\n\nBring your lawn chair\, friends\, family\, your energy and join us.\n\n\n\nYou can eat at a local restaurant and sit on a park bench while listening to the music\n\n\n\nMusic is 2 sets – so you can also grab a meal and or visit the town during the break. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-burnside-manor/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/082872025-Burnside-Manor-Pete-Welch.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250821T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250821T200000 DTSTAMP:20250325T052317Z CREATED:20250325T052317Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T052317Z UID:10002372-1755799200-1755806400@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring The Genesse Stills Band DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Genesee Stills Band\n\n\n\nCranford Summer Sounds is a concert series that takes place at Eastman Clock Plaza in downtown Cranford\, New Jersey on Thursdays from 6–8:00 PM. \n\n\n\n\n\nGenesee Stills is a 5 piece\, Grassroots\, Americana style band perfect for festivals\, wineries\, and community concert events. Audiences will hear selections from The Eagles\, Grateful Dead\, Paul Simon\, James Taylor\, The Band and many more. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-the-genesse-stills-band/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/20230713-Cranford-Genesee-Stills.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250816T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250816T210000 DTSTAMP:20250813T111903Z CREATED:20250807T030501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T111903Z UID:10002495-1755345600-1755378000@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Jazz In The Park headlined by Marion Meadows in Patterson NJ w Don Braden -MPack - Tia Holt - We Ani DESCRIPTION:ESNA 2.0 Presents: Jazz in the Park 2025 – Where Music Meets Movement \n\n\n\n📍 Eastside Park\, 817 14th Avenue\, Paterson\, NJ📅 Saturday\, August 16\, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM🎟️ Free Admission | All Ages | Free Parking \n\n\n\nThe rhythm returns to Paterson! Join ESNA 2.0 for the 2025 edition of Jazz in the Park\, a soulful celebration of music\, culture\, and connection. Set against the lush backdrop of Eastside Park\, this all-day festival invites families\, friends\, and jazz lovers to experience the heartbeat of the city through sound. \n\n\n\n🎶 Festival Highlights \n\n\n\n\n🎺 Live performances from local legends and emerging jazz artists\n\n\n\n🍔 Food trucks and vendors serving up community flavor\n\n\n\n🧘‍♂️ Wellness activations and interactive zones\n\n\n\n🎨 Art\, culture\, and family-friendly activities\n\n\n\n🤝 Hosted by the Eastside Neighborhood Association 2.0\, in partnership with city agencies and private sponsors\n\n\n\n\nWhether you’re dancing in the grass or vibing from your lawn chair\, Jazz in the Park 2025 promises a day of joy\, unity\, and unforgettable grooves. \n\n\n\n📲 Reserve your spot and get updates on the lineup via Eventbrite \n\n\n\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/esna-20-jazz-in-the-park-2025-registration-1412672805389?aff=grrgoryburrusproductions URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/jazz-in-the-park-headlined-by-marion-meadows-in-patterson-nj-2/ LOCATION:Eastside Park\, Lower Field\, Patterson\, New Jersey\, 07514\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Jazz,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PATTERSON-jAZZ-IN-THE-pARK-fESTIVAL-.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250814T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250814T200000 DTSTAMP:20250410T212532Z CREATED:20250325T052317Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T212532Z UID:10002394-1755194400-1755201600@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring The Mission In The Rain Band DESCRIPTION:SAVE THE DATES: The Mission In The Rain Band \n\n\n\n\n\nMission in the Rain comprised of a group of talented local musicians from around the grater Cranford area. Band plays primarily Grateful Dead tunes which are perfect for summer outdoor events. \n\n\n\nCome check out our band cover the Grateful Dead at the historic Downtown Cranford Clock URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-the-mission-in-the-rain-band/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/The-Mission-In-the-Rain2025-04-10-at-9.53.31 AM.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250810T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250810T180000 DTSTAMP:20250725T234602Z CREATED:20250725T234602Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T234602Z UID:10002489-1754838000-1754848800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Essex Funk feat. Victor Jones in Sunday Gazebo Jazz Series at the Maplewood Springfield Ave Gazebo DESCRIPTION:🎷 Sunday Gazebo Jazz Series 🎷Our beloved annual jazz tradition returns August 3 & August 10! \n\n\n\nJoin us at 1668 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, NJ for smooth jazz under the gazebo\, shaded seating\, and good vibes.🍴 Plus\, enjoy delicious eats from a wonderful local food truck!🪑 Bring a chair\, bring a friend\, and soak up the sounds of summer. \n\n\nRegister on Eventbrite\n\n\nPresented by Gregory Burrus Productions & Springfield Avenue Partnership.with support from Finley and Gage & NJPAC Community Engagement \n\n\n\n\nEssex-Funk-at-Maplewoodstock\n\n\n\nEssex Funk Collective is a high-energy\, genre-blending band rooted in South Orange and Maplewood\, NJ\, known for delivering electrifying performances that fuse funk\, soul\, and R&B into a dancefloor-shaking experience. Their setlists span timeless classics from legends like Stevie Wonder and Earth\, Wind & Fire to modern grooves from H.E.R. and Daniel Caesar. \n\n\n\n\nvictor-jones-\n\n\n\nWhile their current lineup featured drummer is away\, Victor Jones is a world-renowned jazz drummer whose inclusion would elevate any ensemble. Jones has played with legends like Stan Getz and Chaka Khan\, and his style blends technical mastery with deep groove\, making him a perfect fit for Essex Funk’s dynamic sound URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/essex-funk-feat-victor-jones-in-sunday-gazebo-jazz-series-at-the-maplewood-springfield-ave-gazebo/ LOCATION:Springfield Avenue Gazebo\, 1662 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, New Jersey\, 07040\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Live Music,MAPSO,RnB,SOMA,SOMAPSO,Sunday Jazz ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2_20250725_185701_0001.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T200000 DTSTAMP:20250721T143712Z CREATED:20250721T141204Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T143712Z UID:10002486-1754589600-1754596800@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Carlos Frias and Circulo Social in Downtown Cranford Summer Sounds DESCRIPTION:Thursday Aug 7th – Join Us for the\n\n\n\nLatin and World Music of Carlos Frias and Circulo Social\n\n\n\nSummer Sounds: Carlos Frias & Circulo Social Live in Downtown Cranford! Presented by Downtown Cranford \n\n\n\nJoin us on Thursday\, August 7 from 6–8 PM at Eastman Clock Plaza for an unforgettable evening of Latin-infused jazz\, World Music\, soul\, and community rhythm with Carlos Frias & Circulo Social. This dynamic ensemble blends Afro-Caribbean grooves\, smooth vocals\, and vibrant instrumentation into a sound that’s both timeless and electrifying. \n\n\n\nWhether you’re dancing in the plaza or relaxing with neighbors\, this free outdoor concert is the perfect way to celebrate summer in the heart of Cranford. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n v \n\n\n\n📍 Eastman Clock Plaza\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 📅 Thursday\, August 7 | 6:00–8:00 PM 🎟️ Free & Open to All 🪑 Bring your lawn chairs\, good vibes\, and dancing shoes! 🎉 Sponsored by Cranford Golf Studio\, Brighton Air Corp\, Garlic Rose Bistro\, Sheet Metal Workers Local 22 & Martin Jewelers \n\n\n\nGPS: 5 Eastman St\, Cranford\, NJ 07016 URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/carlos-frias-and-circulo-social-in-downtown-cranford-summer-sounds/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Latin Jazz,Live Music,MAPSO ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Cranfor-Carlos-Frias-and-circulo-Socil.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T180000 DTSTAMP:20250725T235950Z CREATED:20250725T233407Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250725T235950Z UID:10002490-1754233200-1754244000@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:Lynette Sheard featuring the Glenn Merrit Quartet in Sunday Gazebo Jazz at Springfield Ave Gazebo\, Maplewood NJ DESCRIPTION:August 3rd\, the Springfield Avenue Gazebo will come alive with the powerhouse vocals and magnetic presence of Lynette Sheard\, a Newark-born jazz vocalist\, actress\, and mental health advocate whose performances are as soul-stirring as they are unforgettable. \n\n\n\nSheard is known for her five-octave range\, perfect pitch\, and emotionally resonant delivery that spans jazz\, blues\, gospel\, and soul. Her stage credits include principal roles in Dream Girls\, Ragtime\, and Avenue Q\, and she’s been honored in the Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to connect deeply with audiences\, blending music with storytelling and emotional wellness. \n\n\n\nAt the August 3rd concert\, expect a set filled with jazz standards\, heartfelt ballads\, and empowering moments that reflect her dual artistry and advocacy. Whether she’s belting out “Stormy Monday” or inviting the crowd to scream out their stress\, Sheard transforms every performance into a healing celebration of community and self-expression \n\n\n\n\n\nSunday Gazebo Jazz Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSunday Gazebo Jazz SeriesOur beloved annual jazz tradition returns August 3 & August 10! \n\n\n\nJoin us at 1668 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, NJ for smooth jazz under the gazebo\, shaded seating\, and good vibes.🍴 Plus\, enjoy delicious eats from a wonderful local food truck!🪑 Bring a chair\, bring a friend\, and soak up the sounds of summer. \n\n\n\nPresented by Gregory Burrus Productions & Springfield Avenue Partnership with support from FinlayandGage & NJPAC Community Engagement \n\n\n\nArtist Info: \n\n\n\nLynette Sheard is a powerhouse performer and advocate whose talents span music\, theater\, and mental health education. \n\n\n\nHere’s what makes her remarkable: \n\n\n\n\nVocal Virtuosity: Sheard boasts a five-octave range and perfect pitch\, performing jazz\, blues\, gospel\, soul\, R&B\, and pop. Critics have called her voice “soul-reaching” and “rafter-shaking”.\n\n\n\nTheatrical Force: She’s starred in principal roles in productions like Dream Girls\, Smokey Joe’s Café\, Ragtime\, Aida\, and Avenue Q3.\n\n\n\nMental Health Advocate: As Director of the NJ Mental Health Players\, she leads interactive programs that educate communities about emotional wellness. She’s certified in Mental Health First Aid and suicide prevention training.\n\n\n\nCommunity Connector: Sheard blends art and advocacy\, often performing in events that highlight the healing power of music—like the recent Jazz and Joy: Mind Over Music event produced by Gregory Burrus Productions.\n\n\n\nAccolades & Legacy: She’s been featured in The Encyclopedia of Newark Jazz\, received national awards for innovation in programming\, and was the undefeated West Orange Idol for 15 years.\n\n\n\n\nShe’s not just a performer—she’s a movement. \n\n\n\nGlenn Merritt\, pianist for the Meant To Be Jazz Band\, is a seasoned musician whose style blends classical training with soulful jazz improvisation. \n\n\n\nOriginally from New York City\, Glenn began his musical journey as a child and has since cultivated a rich\, expressive sound. He studied classical piano and music theory at the Manhattan School of Music and was mentored by the late Morris Nanton of the famed Morris Nanton Trio—a relationship that deeply shaped his lush chord voicings and tasteful phrasing. \n\n\n\nBefore settling into jazz piano\, Glenn played percussion in Willie Sossa’s salsa band and electric bass in various R&B groups\, giving him a rhythmic versatility that shines through in his playing. His performances with Meant To Be are marked by swinging standards\, elegant improvisation\, and a deep connection with his fellow musicians\, including Alan Hayes (bass). \n\n\n\nWhether he’s interpreting “Autumn Leaves” or navigating the complexities of “Giant Steps\,” Glenn brings warmth\, precision\, and a sense of storytelling to every note. \n\n\n\nJohn DuBose – Saxophone Soul from North Jersey \n\n\n\nWhen the groove demands heart\, flair\, and fire\, John DuBose answers with his sax. A standout in New Jersey’s live music circuit\, John’s horn sings with a rich blend of funk\, jazz\, and R&B\, weaving smooth melodies with punchy rhythmic flair. \n\n\n\nWhether trading licks in the MPACK Band alongside vocalists like Patricia Walton and Tanaa Dean\, or anchoring spontaneous jams that get crowds moving\, DuBose brings a seasoned\, expressive tone that lights up every stage. He’s not just playing the notes—he’s telling a story\, rooted in soul and shaped by community. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nAlan Hayes – The Groove Anchor of Meant To Be Jazz Band \n\n\n\nWith every pluck of the string\, Alan Hayes brings the foundation\, the flow\, and the finesse to Meant To Be Jazz Band. His bass isn’t just background—it’s the heartbeat\, guiding melodies and grounding improvisations with a warm\, steady pulse that audiences feel in their soul. \n\n\n\nA trusted collaborator within New Jersey’s jazz scene\, Alan’s style blends traditional swing with modern subtlety. Whether supporting Glenn Merritt’s lyrical piano lines\, Pete Omelio’s tight rhythms\, or John Higgins’ bright trumpet tones\, Alan locks in the band’s dynamic sound with quiet authority and magnetic rhythm. \n\n\n\nScott “Phunky B” Jordan LIVE – August 3rd @ Springfield Avenue Gazebo! Get ready for grooves that grab you by the soul. \n\n\n\nOn August 3rd\, the Springfield Avenue Gazebo welcomes Scott “Phunky B” Jordan\, a drummer whose beats are as bold as his mantra: “Music IZ Who I AM\, IT’S WHAT I DO.” Known for locking into funk\, soul\, and jazz rhythms with precision and fire\, Scott turns each set into a percussive celebration of self-expression and community pulse. \n\n\n\nHis style—raw\, rhythmic\, and joyfully unfiltered—pairs seamlessly with the vocal brilliance of Lynette Sheard\, making this double-feature a can’t-miss evening of healing\, high-energy music. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/lynette-sheard-featuring-the-glenn-merrit-quartet-in-sunday-gazebo-jazz-at-springfield-ave-gazebo-maplewood-nj/ LOCATION:Springfield Avenue Gazebo\, 1662 Springfield Ave\, Maplewood\, New Jersey\, 07040\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Gazebo Jazz,Jazz,Live Music,MAPSO,RnB,Smooth Jazz,SOMAPSO,Sunday Jazz ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1_20250725_185700_0000.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T200000 DTSTAMP:20250723T114404Z CREATED:20250325T052318Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250723T114404Z UID:10002370-1753984800-1753992000@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Forget The Whale DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Forget The Whale\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nForget the Whale is a dynamic and eclectic band based in Jersey City\, New Jersey. Known for their genre-blending style\, they incorporate elements of rock\, blues\, alternative\, R&B\, country\, funk\, and even nu-metal into their music. This unique mix creates a “witches’ brew” of sounds that keeps their audience guessing and engaged. \n\n\n\n\n\nThe band features Alishia Taiping on lead vocals and bass\, Dan Pieraccini on bass\, keys\, and vocals\, Peter Durning on guitar and harmonica\, and AJ Zienowicz on drums and vocals. They also occasionally include brass instruments\, adding even more depth to their sound. Forget the Whale has performed at various notable venues across New Jersey and New York\, such as The Bitter End\, Crossroads\, and Downtown Cranford Performances are celebrated for their unpredictability and energy\, making them a must-see act. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-forget-the-whale/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/forget-the-Whale-2022.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250724T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250724T200000 DTSTAMP:20250721T191242Z CREATED:20250514T185512Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T191242Z UID:10002454-1753380000-1753387200@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Jersey Swamp Cats DESCRIPTION:Cranford Summer Sounds featuring Jersey Swamp Cats\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Jersey Swamp Cats are a lively quartet from New Jersey\, known for their energetic blend of blues\, New Orleans R&B\, early rock ‘n’ roll\, rockabilly\, and jump blues. Their music is a mix of creative\, swampy renditions of classics by legends like Fats Domino\, Albert Collins\, and Professor Longhair\, along with original tracks that showcase their unique style. \n\n\n\nThe band features Gerry Gladston on piano\, Don Leich on guitar\, Chris Reardon on drums\, and Larry Ghiorsi on bass. Their debut album\, Go Cat Go\, released in 2019\, includes both covers and original songs\, such as “Cupcake” and “Shiny Gray Corvette\,” which highlight their playful and retro sound. They also incorporate elements of New Orleans jazz and blues\, with guest horn players adding a vibrant touch to their performances. \n\n\n\n\n View this post on Instagram URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-jersey-swamp-cats/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1000011614.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250717T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250717T200000 DTSTAMP:20250325T052319Z CREATED:20250325T052319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T052319Z UID:10002363-1752775200-1752782400@gregoryburrusproductions.com SUMMARY:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring the Accelerators DESCRIPTION:2025 Cranford Summer Sounds featuring the Accelerators\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Accelerators are a punk rock band based in Union\, New Jersey. Formed in 1980 by Ron Nole\, the band draws heavy inspiration from iconic groups like The Ramones and The Smithereens. Known for their fast-paced\, high-energy “power pop” style\, they have released numerous self-produced vinyl records and cassettes over the years. Their music often features irreverent lyrics\, strong melodies\, and dynamic drumming. \n\n\n\nThe Accelerators have been part of compilations like the Weird New Jersey collections\, with standout tracks such as “Shades of Death Road.” Their performances and recordings showcase their unique blend of punk rock and catchy hooks\, making them a memorable part of the New Jersey music scene. URL:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/event/2025-cranford-summer-sounds-featuring-the-accelerators/ LOCATION:Downtown Cranford Clock\, N Union Ave\, Cranford\, NJ 07016\, Cranford\, New Jersey\, United States CATEGORIES:Art and Entertainment,Commnity,Live Music ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/7172025-The-Accelerators-_n.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR