Hillside Jazz (Present Tense): jaimie branch’s FLY or DIE
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Hillside Jazz (Present Tense): jaimie branch’s FLY or DIE

Image of trumpeter on stage performing
jaimie branch. Photo: Peter Gannushkin.

“Fly or Die is a stunning quartet recording that knits together several threads in Branch’s music—laser-sharp improvisatory exploration, ebullient melodies, and a deep feeling for groove.” —Chicago Reader

Injecting a contemporary reckoning—hopefulness and hopelessness, joy and loss—into a clarion call of creative music now, the concert features a bandleader unafraid to pull from the vast history of American jazz, improvisation, and experimental music. Progressive composer jaimie branch, whether soft and pleading or brash and seething as she sounds her trumpet or her voice, helms her quartet (Chad Taylor drums, Jason Ajemian bass, and Lester St. Louis cello) with unflinching conviction. Her last two releases wowed fans and critics alike with her FLY or DIE II: Bird Dogs of Paradise scoring a top 10 spot in NPR’s 2019 records of the year.

Enjoy a complimentary gift to make the performance more comfortable, courtesy of Walker Premier Partner, Chase, on July 2 and August 6. Quantities are limited.

Next generation jazz visionaries make their Twin Cities debuts and chart new pathways forward. They each capture the virtuosity, passion, and commitment to racial and social justice that has driven the jazz vanguard for decades. Offering the sound of tomorrow through some of the most vital voices of today in a free outdoor summer concert series on the beautiful Walker hillside.

Mask wearing is recommended for visitors who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Lawn furniture and smoking are not allowed. There will be food trucks, a water bottle refill station, and a handwashing station at the bottom of the hill.

Tickets are no longer required for this program. You’re welcome to simply show up.

There will be two accessible seating spaces on level grassy areas on the hillside—one at the bottom of the hill and one halfway up the hill. These spaces are next to a paved path and will have chairs for people who need them. Staff members stationed around the hillside will be able to assist with accessible seating.

To request accommodations for this program or for more information about accessibility, call 612-375-7564 or email access@walkerart.org.

For more information about accessibility at the Walker, visit our Access page.