BRATTLEBORO, VT – The Vermont Jazz Center is honored to present the legendary pianist, composer, and arranger Billy Childs, performing live with his quartet on Sunday, February 9th, 2025, at 4:00 PM. With a career spanning decades and accolades including six Grammy Awards, Childs brings a masterful blend of jazz, classical, and contemporary styles that transcend genres and captivate audiences worldwide.
Joining him on stage will be a stellar lineup of musicians: Jason Palmer (trumpet), Matt Penman (bass), and Ari Hoenig (drums). The quartet will feature selections from their critically acclaimed album, The Winds of Change, which earned the 2023 Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Jazz Album.
About Billy Childs 🎹
Billy Childs is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in contemporary jazz. With 17 Grammy nominations and commissions from world-class ensembles such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Kronos Quartet, Childs masterfully bridges classical music’s complexity with jazz’s spontaneity. His works showcase a deep understanding of melody, harmony, and emotion, creating rich, cinematic soundscapes.
Known for his collaborations with luminaries such as Yo-Yo Ma, Wynton Marsalis, and Dianne Reeves, Childs has also made his mark as a leader, releasing 20 albums featuring original compositions and innovative arrangements. His music reflects his philosophy: “A beautiful melody is a profound statement. Once an audience is invested in a melody, you’re free to be as complex and layered as you want underneath.”
Meet the Quartet 🎺
- Jason Palmer (Trumpet): Recognized as one of the “Top 25 Trumpeters of the Future” by DownBeat Magazine, Palmer is an in-demand musician who has performed with Herbie Hancock, Roy Haynes, and Wynton Marsalis. A prolific recording artist and educator, he brings an exceptional depth of artistry to every performance.
- Matt Penman (Bass): A cornerstone of the NYC jazz scene, Penman is a founding member of the SFJazz Collective and has performed with John Scofield, Wayne Shorter, and Joshua Redman. His dynamic basslines and nuanced improvisation elevate every ensemble he joins.
- Ari Hoenig (Drums): Known for his innovative approach to rhythm and texture, Hoenig has collaborated with jazz icons like Chris Potter, Herbie Hancock, and Kurt Rosenwinkel. His drumming blends technical brilliance with emotional expression.
Why You Should Attend 🎵
This is a rare opportunity to experience one of jazz’s greatest visionaries in an intimate quartet setting. Billy Childs’ live performances are immersive, drawing audiences into a world of intricate melodies, fluid time signatures, and powerful emotional storytelling.
Event Details
📍 Location: Vermont Jazz Center, Brattleboro, VT
🕓 Date & Time: Sunday, February 9th, 2025, at 4:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets:
- General Admission: $25+
- Educational Discounts Available: Contact VJC for more details.
- Purchase tickets online at vtjazz.org or call 802-254-9088, ext. 1.
💻 Livestream: Can’t make it in person? Tune in online! Visit the Vermont Jazz Center website or Facebook page for access. Donations are encouraged to support world-class music and educational programs.
About the Vermont Jazz Center
The Vermont Jazz Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and advancing jazz through performances, education, and outreach. Supported by the National Endowment for the Arts and local sponsors, the VJC is committed to making jazz accessible to all. Learn more at vtjazz.org.
