Jazz Drummer Steve Davis on Our Front Porch
March 7 @ 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm
The Western Illinois Museum, in collaboration with the Western Illinois University (WIU) School of Music, will welcome renowned drummer Steve Davis to perform with the HAT Trio on Friday, March 7th. Doors and the bar open at 4:30 pm, with two sets of music scheduled at 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm. The evening will conclude with WIU students taking the stage at 7:30 pm. There is a $5 suggested donation at the door.
Steve Davis is an acclaimed drummer with an impressive career. Known for his work with jazz legends such as Bill Evans, Benny Golson, and Richie Beirach, Davis has been described as “the most musically inspiring drummer playing today” and “one of the baddest cats on the planet.” He has performed and recorded with David Liebman, John Patitucci, Walt Weiskopf, Ira Sullivan, Andy Laverne, and Lynne Arriale. With over 215 recordings, including 19 as a bandleader, Davis has established himself as a prolific force in jazz.
His extensive career includes tours across Europe and North America, faculty positions at Indiana University and the University of South Florida Tampa, and a tenure as Professor of Jazz Studies at the Berlin Conservatory of Music (2000–2001). From 1982 to 2008, he was part of the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Clinics and has conducted educational clinics worldwide. Additionally, Davis is a respected recording engineer, with over 300 recordings to his credit. He currently teaches at Washington University while balancing performances, freelancing, and leading his own group.
Joining Davis for this special evening is the HAT Trio, featuring WIU jazz faculty members Matt Hughes (bass), George Turner (guitar), and Whitney Ashe (piano). Stay tuned for details about the after-party by following @WIMuseum and @WIU School of Music on social media. The Music on Our Front Porch series continues on April 4th, featuring Saxophonist Rob Dixon in a live performance.
This program is funded in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and the WIU Performing Arts Society. 
This event is part of the Museum’s Music on Our Front Porch series, which brings vibrant jazz and classical musicians to a relaxed, intimate setting in the Museum’s unique garage space.
The Western Illinois Museum is a non-profit organization celebrating and nurturing the history, culture, and traditions of McDonough County. It is a vibrant community hub that features exhibits, an open collection area, lectures, music, and other programs in a historic building. The Museum is located at 201 S. Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square.
A full schedule of events can be found at wimuseum.org or follow on social media @wimuseum. For further information, call 309-837-2750, text 309-837-2613, or email info@wimuseum.org.