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Jason O'Mara is a versatile and accomplished saxophonist, woodwind doubler and educator. Having studied saxophone, flute, clarinet and oboe classically and commercially, Jason performs and records in a wide variety of musical contexts including jazz combos, big bands, orchestras, musical theater productions, salsa bands, and pop/rock/soul bands. Jason O'Mara Musician • Composer • Arranger Jason O'Mara is a versatile and accomplished saxophonist, woodwind doubler and educator. Having studied saxophone, flute, clarinet and oboe classically and commercially, Jason performs and records in a wide variety of musical contexts including jazz combos, big bands, orchestras, musical theater productions, salsa bands, and pop/rock/soul bands. He has backed up a wide range of notable performers including Natalie Cole, Frankie Valli, Dick Oatts, Randy Brecker, Jon Faddis, James Moody, 10,000 Maniacs, Father Jon Misty, Wayne Newton, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Teddy Pendergrass, The O’Jays, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, the Temptations, Andy Montanez, among many others. Jason has performed with the Bay-Atlantic Symphony, the Lancaster Symphony, and the Trenton Symphony. He has performed at countless jazz festivals and concert venues throughout the region. He is a founding member of the Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra, the Philly Big Band, Nik Greeley & The Operators, and the New Jersey Saxophone Quartet, with whom he has performed throughout the tri-state area, in Europe, and Carnegie Hall. He has performed and/or recorded with The Jack Saint Clair Orchestra, Owen Stewart Band, Devin Greenwood, The Earl Phillips Big Band, Elvis Bonilla Y Su Orquesta, Nik Greeley & the Operators, The Midtown Men, Package, Dave Mattock Trio, New Pony, IQRAM, The Eleventet, Ellipsis, Fresh Cut Orchestra, Puzzlebox, Hybrid, and Aerial Photography. Jason can be seen on "Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia", a live DVD concert of Philadelphia’s most notable R&B performers produced by PBS and Sony records. Having served on faculty of the Temple University Community Music Scholars Program for 20 years and founded the CMSP Jazz Orchestra, Jason now splits his time as a freelance musician and co-founder of MusicAtlas. When Jason is not performing as a sideman, he can be found leading The Jason O'Mara Group throughout the Philadelphia area. You Don't Know What Love Is Jason O'Mara 00:00 / 10:17 JASON O'MARA INSTAGRAM BACK TO ARTISTS Not an artist member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Saxophonist Andrew Urbina, drummer Matt Scarano, and bassist Sandy Eldred crossed paths while working as side-men on the Philadelphia jazz scene and discovered an instant chemistry the first time they played together. Deciding to defy jazz conventions, where soloists usually take the spotlight, they formed their own band and developed a strong camaraderie. The trio has a monthly residency at the Ukrainian League of Philadelphia. U.S.E. Trio is represented by record label, Each and Only. U.S.E. Trio Andrew Urbina • Matt Scarano • Sandy Eldred Saxophonist Andrew Urbina, drummer Matt Scarano, and bassist Sandy Eldred crossed paths while working as side-men on the Philadelphia jazz scene and discovered an instant chemistry the first time they played together. Deciding to defy jazz conventions, where soloists usually take the spotlight, Urbina, Scarano, and Eldred formed their own band and developed a strong camaraderie. Since 2018, U.S.E. Trio's journey has led to the release of five albums: "Sideways Circle," "Sideways Circle LIVE," "Impact," "Twilight," and "Happy Metal", and the hosting of over 60 DIY concerts in Philadelphia, utilizing these intimate gatherings to refine their compositions, explore new sonic territory, and foster a deeper original music community within their local scene. The trio nurtures their craft through a monthly residency at the Ukrainian League of Philadelphia. U.S.E. Trio is proudly represented by record label, Each and Only. USETRIOMUSIC.COM BACK TO ARTISTS Not an artist member ? CLICK TO JOIN

The Kennett JazzFest is back and better than ever! Held annually in the vibrant heart of Kennett Square, PA, this electrifying celebration of jazz began in 2022 with a single day of soulful sounds. Since then, it’s grown into a full-blown music experience—expanding to include more incredible artists and venues across town. The Kennett JazzFest has become a beloved community tradition—an immersive weekend of fantastic music, local flavor, and great vibes. Kennett JazzFest April 24-26th 2026 • Kennett Square, PA Since 2022, the Kennett Jazz Fest has been Chester County's Premier Jazz Celebration. Now, we’re turning up the volume. In 2026, we’re evolving into the Kennett Jazz & Funk Fest—a fresh take on a fantastic event, blending the smooth sophistication of jazz with the high-energy soul of funk. Our mission is to present an annual music festival that showcases exceptional jazz and funk artists, supports local talent, partners with community organizations, and fosters an environment where music can be experienced, celebrated, and shared by all. And thru that mission, our vision is to make Kennett Square a destination for world-class jazz and funk, igniting passion, diversity, and connection through live music. KENNETTFLASH.ORG BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Rittenhop is a non-profit dedicated to the intersection of Jazz music and swing dancing in the city. Rittenhop Rittenhouse Square We are a non-profit dedicated to the intersection of Jazz music and swing dancing in the city. RITTENHOP.ORG BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

The band performs as a trio, quartet, quintet, etc. Bassist Jim Stager has been with the group from the beginning. Joshua Machiz & Chris Pistorino also share bass duties. Zack Devine is the 2nd guitarist, and violinist Joseph Arnold is a key part of the group’s recordings and shows, along with Mollie DuCoste. They often collaborate with vocalist Phyllis Chapell. Hot Club of Philadelphia The band performs as a trio, quartet, quintet, etc. Bassist Jim Stager has been with the group from the beginning. Joshua Machiz & Chris Pistorino also share bass duties. Zack Devine is the 2nd guitarist, and violinist Joseph Arnold is a key part of the group’s recordings and shows, along with Mollie DuCoste. They often collaborate with vocalist Phyllis Chapell. Their second CD, ‘Gypsy Routes,’ released in 2015, features Chapell on pieces like Edith Piaf’s ‘La Foule’ in French, and ‘Cry Me a River’ [in English]. Barry also sings; early jazz pieces like ‘Georgia on My Mind,’ and standards that were done by artists like Frank Sinatra & Nat ‘King’ Cole. Their eclectic mix also includes interpretations of songs by the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, John Prine, etc. The ensemble is available for concerts, workshops, private parties, swing dances, house concerts, live stream shows, etc. HOTCLUBOFPHILADELPHIA.COM BACK TO ARTISTS Not an artist member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Bourbon & Branch is a whiskey bar and restaraunt. Located at 705 N 2nd St in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Bourbon & Branch hosts live jazz every Thursday evening and First Friday. Bourbon & Branch 705 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19123 Our passion for food and drink is rivaled only by our steadfast commitment to offering our diners the best overall experience. You see, we are a family of chefs, bartenders and more, intent on creating a culture of friends who share our passion for all things delicious. Yet an Altar still, our bar (from an old decommissioned church on 10th and green) is used to praise a different kind of spirit, the spirit of Ischabaha, the spirit of whiskey. We truly believe in our ability to offer not only superb food and drink at a friendly price, but also an experience you wont soon forget. Bourbon & Branch hosts live jazz every Thursday evening and on First Fridays curated by Bill Saurman. BOURBONANDBRANCHPHILLY.COM BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Founded in 2018 by musicians from Chile and Cuba, Notsolatin is a performance venue, recording studio, and cultural center in Philadelphia. Described as the "Tiny Desk Concert House of South Philly", we are home to a community of artists who use our space to develop their work and to share it with a dedicated and intimate listening audience. We hope to provide a platform for cultural exchange that will deepen community ties and understanding in our neighborhood and beyond. NotSoLatin 1440 W Ritner St. Philadelphia PA 19145 Founded in 2018 by musicians from Chile and Cuba, Notsolatin is a performance venue, recording studio, and cultural center in Philadelphia. Described as the "Tiny Desk Concert House of South Philly", we are home to a community of artists who use our space to develop their work and to share it with a dedicated and intimate listening audience. We hope to provide a platform for cultural exchange that will deepen community ties and understanding in our neighborhood and beyond. Notsolatin is a place for artists to achieve and share their highest creative potential. NOTSOLATIN.ORG BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Painted Bride Art Center is a 56-year-old organization that unites artists, audiences, and communities to push the boundaries of how art is experienced and created. We are committed to supporting artists from all walks of life and amplifying underrepresented voices to reflect an array of experiences, perspectives and cultures, and identities. Painted Bride Art Center 4029 Cambridge St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Painted Bride Art Center is a 56-year-old organization that unites artists, audiences, and communities to push the boundaries of how art is experienced and created. We are committed to supporting artists from all walks of life and amplifying underrepresented voices to reflect an array of experiences, perspectives and cultures, and identities. Through the legacy of our work, we have supported upwards of 25,000 artists, hosted over 5,000 events and commissioned over 100 new works, with innumerable community workshops and educational programs as an inherent part of our programmatic approach. Presently, the Bride is entering a bold new era that brings artists’ work into Philadelphia communities and beyond, through dynamic partnerships and creative evolution, allowing us to support powerful and provocative projects that explore adaptation, scale, and reinvention. The Bride cultivates a welcoming environment for honest, critical dialogue and playful exchange to transform lives and communities at the intersection of art and social justice. PAINTEDBRIDE.ORG BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

Discover new creative works from Philly’s jazz scene with Project Profiles — in-depth pages featuring albums, concert series, publications, and more. Each profile includes rich details, media, links, exclusive artist interviews, and behind-the-scenes insight. Project Profiles Satellite Sound Series The Painted Bride Art Center PROJECT PROFILE PAGE Treasures V. Shayne Frederick PROJECT PROFILE PAGE The Philly Jazz Voice Issue No. 1 PROJECT PROFILE PAGE Philatino Music & Culture Fest November 15, 2025 PROJECT PROFILE PAGE

Mervin Toussaint is an emerging saxophonist and composer making waves as both a performer and educator in the Philadelphia area. A Haitian American, Toussaint grew up in the Haitian church which provided an important incubator for his musical voice. Since moving to Philadelphia in 2016 Mervin has embraced the musical influences around him including Jazz, RnB, Neo-soul, into his own voice. Mervin Toussaint Saxophonist • Composer • Educator Mervin Toussaint is an emerging saxophonist and composer making waves as both a performer and educator in the Philadelphia area. A Haitian American, Toussaint grew up in the Haitian church which provided an important incubator for his musical voice. Since moving to Philadelphia in 2016 Mervin has embraced the musical influences around him including Jazz, RnB, Neo-soul, and other contemporary styles into his own voice. He has presented his music as a leader in a wide array of venues and spaces, including South Jazz Kitchen, Chris’ Jazz Cafe, Paris Bistro, and the MAAS building. He has also performed as a soloist at a variety of churches, including the historical Tindley Temple United Methodist Church. As a side musician, Mervin actively collaborates with rappers, poets, and spoken word artists and incorporates those mediums into his original compositions; his five-song debut EP, Another Name for Everything reflects his diverse musical language creates a beautiful preamble to his first full-length release in the fall of 2022. As an educator, Mervin started teaching private lessons and working as a teacher at the University of the Arts summer program. His approach to teaching expanded when he became an intern at the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing arts. There, he learned of the importance of community and culture in music education, teaching private lessons and working in afterschool programs in the city. Toussaint has moved on to work as a music teacher and administrator at Settlement Music School, where he serves as the Branch Coordinator of the Germantown branch. MERVINTOUSSAINT.COM BACK TO ARTISTS Not an artist member ? CLICK TO JOIN

The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts (PCC), founded in 1966, was one of the most significant events in the history of Musicians’ Protective Union Local 274, American Federation of Musicians (AFM). Union President James Adams proposed the idea to the membership. They agreed that the establishment of a social wing was beneficial. Raymond L. Smith, Charles Gaines and Curtis Wilder proposed the name for PCC, adopted for the Clef Club in New York City. Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts 736 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146 The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts (PCC), founded in 1966, was one of the most significant events in the history of Musicians’ Protective Union Local 274, American Federation of Musicians (AFM). Union President James Adams proposed the idea to the membership. They agreed that the establishment of a social wing was beneficial. Raymond L. Smith, Charles Gaines and Curtis Wilder proposed the name for PCC, adopted for the Clef Club in New York City. The social wing was designed to operate as a separate organization within the union. It was maintained inside the local building and all assets of Local 274 were transferred from the local into their social wing. At a time when the city’s African American musicians struggled for political, economic and cultural recognition, Local 274 gave them representation and broke a tradition of segregation. With members such as John Coltrane, McCoy Tyner, Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Smith, Lee Morgan, “Philly Joe Jones,” Grover Washington Jr, the Heath Brothers, Nina Simone, Bootsie Barnes, and Butch Ballard, Local 274 was crucial to the growth of a thriving jazz scene in Philadelphia. When the AFM cancelled Local 274’s charter in 1971 for refusing to become what they viewed as “submerged” in Local 77, it was the last independent African American musicians’ union in the AFM and the United States. During its heyday, it was not unusual to see Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Art Blakely, Dinah Washington, Max Roach and others exchanging artistic ideas in the union hall. The PCC became a haven for jazz musicians and jazz lovers where they relaxed, socialized, and jammed. The PCC became so popular that it created a “B” membership for jazz lovers and out-of-town musicians. The PCC would be packed on weekends where patrons watched celebrities make their flashy entrances. In 1970, PCC was forced to relocate from 912 South Broad Street to 114 South 13th Street. Despite the disruption, the PCC continued to function as a social club. In 1978, PCC expanded its activities to include jazz performance, jazz instruction, and the preservation of Philadelphia’s rich jazz history. In 1982, Dr. Bernard C. Watson, the former president of the William Penn Foundation, allocated funds to construct a new facility at 736 South Broad Street, as part of the development of cultural organizations in Philadelphia’s performing arts district, the Avenue of the Arts. In 1985 Lovett Hines initiated the PCC Jazz Education Program. He mentored hundreds of accomplished musicians including Christian McBride, Ahmir Questlove Thompson and Kamal Grey of the Roots, Jaleel Shaw, and many others. In January 1993, the Philadelphia Clef Club sponsored a concert in the Academy of Music in memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. An audience of nearly 2,600 applauded some of the leading jazz artists in the world, including Jimmy Smith, George Benson, Sonny Fortune, Peter Nero, Red Rodney, Johnny Coles, Lou Tobacin, Mickey Roker, Bobby Durham, Clifford Adams, Randy Brecker, Trudy Pitts, Shirley Scott, Tim Warfield, Charles Fambrough, Christian McBride and Kenny Barron. In 1995, the Philadelphia Clef Club established a new facility on the corner of Broad and Fitzwater Streets that houses classrooms, a performance space, recording facilities, and executive offices. The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts is the first facility ever constructed specifically as a jazz institution – a testament to our nation’s history. Considered a historic icon in the Philadelphia African American community, the PCC has since expanded its offerings to include public performances by leading jazz artists and a music education program which has a significant positive impact on youth participants. CLEFCLUBOFJAZZ.ORG BACK TO VENUES BACK TO STUDIOS Not a venue member ? CLICK TO JOIN

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