Thursday Night Jazz: Kente Summer Madness Presents the Mark Strickland Quartet

Photo Credit: Brian Herman. Photo Courtesy: Kente Arts Alliance

Nothing says summer is here like the arrival of the Kente Summer Madness series at City of Asylum! The first of three concerts kicks off this July with legendary Pittsburgh guitarist Mark Strickland. He has collaborated with some of the jazz scene’s most notable players including Grady Tate, Groove Holmes, Michelle Benson, and Gene Ludwig. In addition, he has produced or engineered projects for jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Dakota Staton. 

In an interview with Jazz Guitar Today, Mark noted the tenacity of the many “monster players” Pittsburgh’s jazz scene has produced over the years and their influence on his chops as a musician: “You never knew what to expect, but it kept you sharp!” 

Mark Strickland has been influenced by Wes Montgomery, Kenny Burrell, and other jazz and R&B legends.  Currently, Mark maintains a full-time performance schedule and is also a dedicated music educator. He has taught at the University of Pittsburgh since 2019. At Pitt, he offers individual guitar lessons and teaches ensemble groups. 

About the Presenter:

This program is presented in partnership with Kente Arts Alliance, an African American arts organization whose mission is to present high-quality art of the African Diaspora. 

About Your Visit: 

The in-house restaurant, Cucina Alfabeto, is open for dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. Please visit OpenTable or call 412-435-1111 to make a reservation.