Date: Sunday, June 22nd
Location: Starr Theater at Walton Arts Center
Time: 7:00
Discount available for NWA Jazz Society members.
You’ll experience three exceptional jazz piano performances in one night featuring internationally acclaimed Champian Fulton, the dynamic Youngjoo Song, and Miki Yamanaka with her unique humor and charismatic virtuosity. Accompaniment will be provided by Raul Reyes on bass and Steve Pruitt on drums.
Fulton is recognized as the “most gifted pure jazz singer of her generation” (Detroit Free Press). A jazz pianist and vocalist for more than 20 years, she has released 18 albums as a leader and has performed in more than 25 countries, both in concert and on TV. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including album of the year in the NYC Jazz Record (2018, 2020, 2023) and pianist and vocalist of the year (2019) by Hot House Magazine.
Song is recognized as one of Korea’s leading jazz pianists, with a career marked by significant achievements. She graduated from Berklee College of Music and Manhattan School of Music, which provided her with a strong foundation in jazz performance. Her discography includes 10 albums with distinguished labels such as EMI, Warner, and Sony, and she has recorded 14 albums in total. She brings a soulful and expressive style to the event, enriched by her extensive performance history.
Japanese-born pianist Yamanaka has called New York City home since 2012 and has wasted no time establishing herself as one of the leading personalities of her generation on the piano. Critics laud her “light, expressive touch and solidly crafted, mainstream approach,” while audiences delight in not only her playing but her vibrant personality as well. Yamanaka has gained international recognition from her albums and has emerged as a leader of the “New York Scene” via her notable residencies at mainstay West Village sister clubs Smalls and Mezzrow.
Raul Reyes, born in Cuba, moved to the U.S. in 2010 to pursue his music career. His performances include collaborations with Jimmy Heath, John Beasley, and Billy Hart, indicating a deep understanding of jazz rhythms and a cheerful charisma that enhances his musical contributions.
Pruitt’s passion for music began early, leading him to study at the University of North Texas, where he received the Shelley Manne Scholarship and studied under Ed Soph. He has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists across genres, including jazz, rock, hip-hop, fusion, R&B, and big band, with notable collaborations including Cornell Dupree, Bobby Sparks, Eddie Gomez, and Snarky Puppy.
Starr Theater at Walton Arts Center
495 W Dickson St.
Fayetteville, AR 72701