Jazz

Mike Switzer interviews Mark Rapp, founder and director of the ColaJazz Foundation, host of the ColaJazz Jazz and Roots Festival returning May 15-16 to Columbia, SC.

Mike Switzer interviews Mark Rapp, founder and director of the ColaJazz Foundation, host of the ColaJazz Jazz and Roots Festival returning May 15-16 to Columbia, SC.

South Carolina–born Lauren Meccia is a saxophonist, composer, and University of South Carolina professor known for her versatility in jazz, classical, and contemporary music.

Ann Caldwell, born in Denmark, South Carolina, is known as Charleston’s “First Lady of Jazz.”

James “Blood” Ulmer was born in St. Matthews, South Carolina, and is a visionary guitarist known for his daring blend of avant-garde jazz, blues, and free improvisation.

Charleston-born Alphonse Mouzon was a groundbreaking drummer and a pioneer of jazz fusion. Known for his explosive energy, technical mastery, and rhythmic creativity, Mouzon helped redefine what jazz percussion could be.

Every musician is the sum of the voices they’ve listened to, and my sound is shaped by the artists who came before me.

Born in Dillon, South Carolina, Jimmy Hamilton was a masterful clarinetist and tenor saxophonist best known for his 25-year tenure with the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

Born in Aiken, South Carolina, Bubber Miley was a key figure in the 1920s Harlem jazz scene and a pioneering trumpeter whose sound helped define the early Duke Ellington Orchestra.

When you watch a jazz pianist, it’s easy to focus on the notes but there’s so much happening behind the keys. This is true whether they're performing solo or as part of an ensemble.