DESCRIPTION:
We are starting the year off with local saxophonist and educator Jason Swagler. Jason is the director of the Jazz Studies department at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), where he has been a faculty member since 2000.

Jason is also instructor for the premiere ensemble in Jazz St. Louis’ educational outreach program. Under his musical direction, the Jazz St. Louis All-Stars have performed with internationally renowned artists such as Stefon Harris, Greg Osby, Greg Tardy, Sean Jones, and Terrell Stafford; and before concerts headlined by Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Ahmad Jahmal, Wynton Marsalis, and others.

Jason maintains an active performing career, playing between 100 to 150 dates a year under his own name and as a freelancer. He is the founding member of the soul jazz group, CommonWealth. He has toured extensively throughout Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the United States (from Key West, FL to Hollywood, CA).

His latest albums, Rough Stuff (2013) and Map of the World (2014), are available through iTunes and Amazon.

We have assembled a fantastic rhythm section to accompany Jason for his performance as well. Jason will be joined by Adam Manness on Piano, Bob Deboo on Bass, and Miles Vandiver on Drums.