Jazz lovers and photography enthusiasts have a rare opportunity to celebrate the rich legacy of jazz and blues while supporting the musicians who bring these genres to life. The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) presents A Wonderful World, a striking exhibition featuring 37 portraits of jazz and blues legends by renowned photographer Richard Corman. Hosted at the Wild Geese Gallery on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, the exhibition runs through February and includes a series of free live performances by some of the very musicians depicted in the show.
Proceeds from the sale of Corman’s signed and numbered, limited-edition prints will directly benefit JFA’s Musicians’ Emergency Fund. The foundation, which has long been a safety net for musicians in need, provides essential support, including housing, healthcare, and financial aid to artists facing crises.
For more information and to see all the portraits featured in this exhibition, please visit Jazz Foundation of America’s website.
Live Jazz Performances
Complementing the exhibition, a lineup of live performances will bring the portraits to life through music. The schedule includes:
February 5, 7-9 PM: The Phil Young Experience
Phil Young, celebrated drummer and bandleader, will kick off our performance series. A cornerstone of the uptown music scene, Young has collaborated with legends like Ray Charles, Jimi Hendrix, and Stanley Turrentine. His dynamic energy and deep connection to the music community embody the spirit of JFA.
February 9, 2-4 PM: Victor Gould
Victor Gould, hailed by DownBeat magazine as “a new and important compositional voice,” brings his extraordinary talent to the stage. A pianist and composer of international acclaim, Gould’s performances are a testament to the transformative power of jazz.
February 12, 7-9 PM: James Carter Quartet
James Carter, a virtuoso saxophonist celebrated for his boundless creativity, will deliver an electrifying performance. With over a dozen acclaimed albums and collaborations with iconic artists, Carter’s artistry exemplifies the innovation that JFA is proud to support.
February 19, 7-9 PM: Danny Mixon & Antoinette Montague
New York City jazz treasures Danny Mixon and Antoinette Montague will grace the stage with their soulful blend of blues and jazz. Mixon’s storied career and Montague’s powerful vocals promise an unforgettable evening of music.
February 26, 7-9 PM: Bethune Big Band
The Bethune Big Band, founded by the late Charles Lonny West, continues to honor the legacy of the Big Band Era. Directed by Paul West, the ensemble’s timeless swing and jazz standards celebrate the enduring power of community and collaboration in music.
All performances are free and open to the public.
