Tune in on Tuesday, April 23 at 12pm ET to hear from Brent Birckhead, artist, Jazz soloist, educator, Arts Envoy and American Music Abroad Alumni. In this Instagram Live (@voicesofexchange) MentorTalks episode, Brent will discuss a career spent furthering diplomacy and connection among cultures through jazz, as he and his group, Birckhead, have traveled across the world to perform tours. In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, we'll hear from Brent around how he prepares for each tours with varying audiences, especially those who may have never heard jazz before, as well as what it really takes to succeed as an artist.
Speaker Biography
Brent Birckhead, an award-winning artist, embodies a dynamic fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, transcending genre boundaries with his woodwind artistry and composition. Rooted in a profound reverence for musical legacy and driven by an innate compulsion for creative risk-taking, Birckhead's artistic journey reflects a visionary approach to life as a rising leader. Educated at Howard University with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Music Education, Birckhead's exceptional talent has garnered widespread recognition. Notably, he was honored as the best blues/pop/rock soloist and outstanding instrumental jazz soloist by Downbeat Magazine. The Washington City Paper acclaimed him as "Best Alto Saxophonist" in 2011, while The New York Times hailed him as "one of the most riveting young improvisers in New York." Birckhead's musical prowess has led him to share stages with icons such as Lauryn Hill, Nas, Wale, Eric Benet, Larry Graham, and George Duke, among others. In 2019, he released his debut album on Revive Music, exploring themes of love, family history, and activism. Now, in 2024, Birckhead is set to release his sophomore album "Cacao," promising a captivating continuation of his musical journey. In addition to his thriving musical career, Birckhead serves as a professor of saxophone at Morgan State University and the Baltimore School of the Arts, nurturing the next generation of musical talent. Furthermore, he holds the esteemed role of cultural ambassador for both the United States and the United Nations, using his platform to promote cultural exchange and understanding on a global scale.