August 31, 2026 Therran Dennis

Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra Dazzles at The Eubie Blake Center

[Photo Credit: Efrain Ribeiro] After about 13 minutes into the second set of a double billing held on February 28, 2026, in the cozy confines of the Eubie Blake Cultural Center in Mt. Vernon, band leader Todd Marcus and his Jazz Orchestra basked in the glow of a standing ovation. | Read more>> Read More

Artist Profiles

August 9, 2026 Therran Dennis

Saxophonist and Composer Andrew Kreitner Learns the Lyrics

Back in late February during a Todd Marcus Orchestra concert at Eubie Blake Center, I was blown away after the rousing set opener, “Horus.” I immediately turned to my left to share my elation, where saxophonist and composer Andrew Kreitner happened to be sitting – he seemed just as mesmerized. | Read more>> Read More

Concert Reviews

March 22, 2026 Therran Dennis

Javier Nero: From the Diaspora to An Die Musik

Continuing his monthly residency at An Die Musik, trombonist/composer/arranger—and budding griot—Javier Nero enlightened us with his 18-piece jazz orchestra for two sets on September 25, 2025. Nero and his big band began with the original piece, “Alkebulan”—a moniker that’s born from an effort to reconnect the African Diaspora. | Read more>> Read More

Artist Profiles

August 30, 2025 Therran Dennis

Ben Merliss – becoming a musician

[Photo by Michael Friedman] One Friday in late May, I met with bassist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Ben Merliss to learn about his musical journey, influences, and creative process. We sat down at Stem & Vine, a lush botanical spot on Charles Street. | Read more>> Read More

CD Reviews

June 27, 2025 Therran Dennis

Phil Ravita’s Latest Album, Alice Blue, Shines with Seven Originals

[Photo portrays the Ravita Group: Left to right: Greg Small, Phil Ravita, Deirdre Jennings, Mark Leppo, Luc Vega. In front: Paul Carr] While jogging under a beaming afternoon sun for his daily cardio, bassist/composer Phil Ravita approached an abandoned building disfigured with shattered windows. | Read more>> Read More

baltimorejazz.com

Author: Therran Dennis

Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra Dazzles at The Eubie Blake Center

Saxophonist and Composer Andrew Kreitner Learns the Lyrics

Javier Nero: From the Diaspora to An Die Musik

Ben Merliss – becoming a musician

Phil Ravita’s Latest Album, Alice Blue, Shines with Seven Originals

The Doug Maher / Ben Thomas Duo

Liz Fixsen & Friends – Jazz in the Garden

Tribute to James Brown with Greg Cooper

Andrea Brachfeld and Aleko Lionikis in concert

Sam Farthing Trio