Very Important Partners

Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra

6:45pm – 8:15pm | South Stage

For more than 35 years, the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra has been one of Michigan’s premier large jazz ensembles. The band features many of the area’s finest musicians, playing swinging original compositions and arrangements of traditional favorites. The GRJO performs at festivals and shows around the region, as well as a monthly show at Founders Brewery.

Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson

8:15pm – 9:30pm | North Stage

This classic swing stylist has a big blues sound and irresistible charm. Wess began playing alto and soprano saxophones at the age of 14, resulting in an enviable career including stints as a sideman for Wynton Marsalis, and fourteen years with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. Having spent time in academia at both the Juilliard School and at Michigan State University, Wess has once again returned to his role as a full-time performer and jazz advocate.

Bill Heid Trio

9:30pm – 11:00pm | South Stage

Bill Heid combines the sound of American Soul with hard bop sensibilities. A Pittsburgh native, Heid spent the 80’s and 90’s in Chicago and Detroit, eventually settling in Washington, D.C. Performing fluently on both piano and Hammond organ, he spent a decade working the “chitlin’ clubs,” and has toured and recorded with jazz and blues greats including Sonny Stitt, David “Fathead” Newman, Grant Green, and Ko Ko Taylor. He’s released thirteen albums as a leader. A prolific recording-artist and producer, he has also performed around the world, including as a jazz ambassador for the U.S. State Department.