The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center will host legendary Jamaican pianist Monty Alexander this Saturday, February 21, for a highly anticipated performance titled Jamaica to Jazz. The concert begins at 8 p.m. and promises an evening that bridges Caribbean rhythms and classic American jazz.
Alexander, celebrated for his vibrant stage presence and technical mastery, has spent more than six decades captivating audiences worldwide. His music seamlessly blends the pulse of his Jamaican heritage with the swing and sophistication of jazz, creating a sound that fuses soul, island rhythms and improvisational flair.
Born in Kingston, Alexander began playing piano at a young age and quickly became a key figure in Jamaica’s emerging music scene. As a teenager in the late 1950s, he performed in some of the island’s first recording studios, contributing to sessions that helped shape ska — the precursor to reggae that rose to global prominence in the 1960s and ’70s.
After immigrating to the United States, Alexander shared stages with some of jazz’s most iconic figures, including Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, among others. Those collaborations helped refine a style that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
In addition to the performance, organizers will collect monetary donations and essential supplies to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Contributions can be made at the Global Empowerment Mission table and the Moss Center table at the venue.
The concert is recommended for ages 13 and older. Tickets range from $35 to $65, with VIP tickets priced at $80. VIP ticketholders will be invited to a pre-performance reception hosted by the Jamaica Tourist Board at 6:30 p.m. in the Lab Theater.
