FREE ADMISSION
Join us at the Gallery to enjoy dynamic work by ArtMix and Orna Bentor and for the jazzy groove of seasoned musicians, Willie Walker & Conversation Piece and the Todd Wright Quartet on May 3 from 5:30-9:00pm.
Featured Art Exhibition: ArtMix with A Tribute to Orna Bentor
Willie Walker & Conversation Piece:
Conversation Piece gives people something to talk about! The band is a successful and respected staple in Charlotte with a loyal following. Conversation Piece members include Willie Walker on bass guitar and vocals, Carl Ratliff on saxophone and flute, Darryl Payton on Trombone, Charlton Taylor on keyboards, Derek McCoy on guitar, and Christian Whitley on drums. Conversation Piece has been performing as a sextet for more than a decade. The six talented individuals with impressive musical backgrounds combine for a unique sound. Walker, Ratliff, Payton, Taylor, McCoy, and Whitley bring together their love of music and years of experience in the musical industry.
Todd Wright Quartet:
Todd Wright, director of jazz studies at Appalachian, teaches Jazz In American Society, Improvisation I and II, Jazz Piano, and directs Jazz Ensemble I. Wright also teaches applied jazz and assists with combos. He created the Appalachian Jazz Vocal Ensemble and directed it for ten years. In 2013 Wright was chosen Appalachian State University nominee to the UNC State Board of Governance in recognition of the O. Max Gardner Award, the highest award given by the Board of Governors. The award recognizes a member of the faculty of the Consolidated University of North Carolina "who has made the greatest contribution to the welfare of the human race." He is the recipient of the North Carolina Arts Council Jazz Composers Fellowship Grant, Teacher of the Year (Hayes School of Music), and several community service awards. He has shared the stage with numerous jazz artists. Some include Dr. Billy Taylor, Joe Williams, Benny Golson, Clark Terry, Randy Brecker, Wycliffe Gordon, Ingrid Jenson and the Marcus Roberts Trio. He has performed in Europe, Brazil, Mexico and the Caribbean. Wright is also a familiar face here at Wilkes Art Gallery performing at many of our openings and special occasions, including our 2nd Annual Blue Ridge Art & Jazz Night.
Also check out other Music events in North Wilkesboro, Entertainment events in North Wilkesboro, Arts events in North Wilkesboro.
