What is jazz? Ask 10 people and you might get 10 different answers. Marcus Duke and George Schneider’s approach to jazz is less about the genre and more about an adventurous attitude and improvisation: common threads that tie together instrumentals drawing from traditional yet diverse styles including jazz, folk, blues, rock, world fusion and classical.

In addition to an original bluesy composition by Duke, the duo will perform several lively bebop numbers (Monk, Cannonball), a haunting ballad (Towner), a hybrid folk/classical tune (Fleck), and a Debussy piece. They’ll also play several pieces by musical colleagues Tor Dietrichson (world jazz) and Shawn Weaver (funky/rockin’ blues): and they’ll wrap up with a high-energy Brazilian jazz piece by Airto.

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Musician Bios

Duke started playing piano at age 3 and has been performing professionally for over 50 years, often with his own bands. Through original compositions and covers, he strives to evoke rather than emulate diverse musical styles from around the world through creative, free-wheeling conversations with his fellow musicians. He and his wife have had a place in the Methow for 26 years, and moved here permanently in 2017.

Schneider arrived in the Methow Valley with his wife Boo ten years ago, and immediately jumped into the music scene. He has collaborated with local jazz musicians, plays flute with the Methow Valley Orchestra, and has gigged extensively around the valley. His approach to the flute has been shaped by listening to masterful musicians in jazz, rock, and classical genres.

Find out more about Schneider, Duke and other local musicians and learn how to support them at cascadiamusoc.org/muslcians-of-the-methow.

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DATE: Virtually on March 26, 6pm, and available anytime after that. Rebroadcast on KTRT, 97.5fm on April 2. TICKETS: By donation at cascadiamusic.org/musicians-of-the-methow