Saxophonist Kirk Edwards Release 'SHOUT' Features Donald Vega

For the past eight years Kirk Edwards has studied jazz improvisation with the celebrated pianist Donald Vega. As an organic outgrowth of this association Kirk often shared original compositions with Donald. Mr. Vega would offer suggestions to enhance these songs and Kirk would implement those elements into the pieces. As the original compositions became more refined Donald suggested that Kirk record them, adding that he would also play on the recording with him. So, that was the genesis of Mr. Edwards’ first CD recording as a bandleader, The AKA Project; recorded at the Rudy Van Gelder Studios in August 2021. Kirk continued his studies with Mr. Vega in improvisation and composition. The AKA Project is a research-inspired study of the language and context of several of our most notable jazz masters.

SHOUT! is a collection of songs inspired by the exuberant, expressive, and spiritual qualities of African American gospel music traditions, but with a jazz sensibility. Mr. Edwards’ maturity as a jazz artist and composer is evident and the group’s coherence and growth is apparent.

All songs were composed by Kirk Edwards.

About Kirk Edwards

Former U.S. Coast Guard Band Clarinetist & saxophonist, former Director of Cadet Bands at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, composer of the Martin L. King March for Band and orchestra, recording artist (The AKA Project featuring Donald Vega,) and composed Music for the Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back Social Justice project.

About Donald Vega

Winner of 2023 Guggenheim Fellowship for Composition, pianist for Ron Carter’s Golden Striker Trio, Recording Artist, leader of the Donald Vega Trio, and faculty member of Juilliard School.