Vocalist Lee Langston and pianist Charles D. Williams present an hour-long, all-ages jazz master class focused on improvisation, Kansas City jazz history, and performance techniques.

Langston was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and moved to Kansas City, Missouri, as a child, where he developed and honed his musical talents. Inspired by multiple genres, including soul, rock, jazz, pop, and classical music, he’s shared the stage with many acclaimed artists, including Michael McDonald, Cameo, and Krystle Warren. Langston has also performed with international ensembles in Beirut, Lebanon, and San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, as part of a cultural music exchange organized by UNESCO.

Williams has performed in Kansas City for more than 40 years. He began his career as a trombonist with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Ernie Wilkins, and Cannonball Adderley. A writer and producer, Williams serves on the board of directors of the American Jazz Museum, where he teaches Advanced Jazz Combo at the Jazz Academy. He also offers private piano lessons.

The session is presented in partnership with the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra. Founded in 2003, the organization’s mission is to promote Kansas City’s rich culture through performance and education.