An Exclusive Conversation with Jahari Stampley: Ahead of His Upcoming Performance
October 10, 2024
Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 4:00 PM at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, Kalamazoo
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Jahari Stampley, the prodigious pianist lauded by Herbie Hancock himself, to talk about his upcoming performance at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe and what he’s been up to lately. Here’s what he shared with us.
Who are you listening to right now?
“Currently, my listening habits have been a bit unusual due to long travel schedules and being outside of the country performing with my family trio. I haven’t had a lot of time to sit and explore new music; however, I have been in the process of writing a lot more.”
What are you working on musically right now?
“I’ve been working on trying to hear multiple voices, sing and play between both hands. Just trying to develop consistency in really outlining each of the voices in my fingers when I play.”
Do you have a pre-performance routine?
“Typically, I like to clear my mind and take a moment to myself to really get ready to shift into my musical mind. When I’m playing, it often takes me to a different state altogether, so once the performance ends, I don’t always remember what happened in the moment.”
What’s the last memorable performance you attended by another musician?
“While in San Jose, I got to witness and speak to Herbie Hancock backstage after my family trio and I performed at the same festival. Seeing Herbie hug my mom for the first time was special. He recognized her immediately and explained how she embodies the image he thinks of when he envisions a woman on saxophone. Afterwards, he performed, and we got to speak a bit more and take a photo alongside another influential artist, Cory Henry. It was incredibly memorable because of the intimacy of the conversation we had.”
Is there something you enjoy when you are not practicing, playing, or traveling?
“I enjoy going for walks and exploring different parts of scenery and architecture. Trying new foods is also another hobby of mine.”
What are you looking forward to in the next six months?
“I’m looking forward to writing and recording new music, along with some special collaborations that are coming up. The volume of performances that are coming up is also exciting—so I’m looking forward to these upcoming shows.”
Is there a highlight of your year so far that has nothing to do with your music?
“This year’s highlight has been going to China for the first time. Being able to witness such a different part of the world was an unbelievable experience and truly a highlight.”
Don’t Miss the Jahari Stampley Trio Live
Experience the incredible talent of Jahari Stampley alongside his family trio:
Jahari Stampley – Piano, Synth, Organ Pedals-Bass
Donella Stampley – Bass, Sax, Synth, Keybass
Jongkuk Kim – Drums
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, Kalamazoo
Tickets:
Seated: $28
Standing: $15
Students: $10 (with valid ID)
Join us for an afternoon of exceptional music and be part of an audience that appreciates not just the notes, but the stories and passion behind them. Jahari Stampley’s performance is set to be a memorable event that you won’t want to miss.