Jazzmeia Horn, New Year's Eve

For New Year’s Eve and our Anniversary Eve as well, Audrey and I took Micah and Victoria to the Kennedy Center to hear vocalist Jazzmeia Horn and her Noble Force. The musical energy started high and stayed high, with Jazzmeia leading a full big band horn section with 5 saxes, 4 trombones and 4 trumpets through a series of her own compositions. “Strive” and “Freedom” were particularly powerful. (Listen to Freedom on Spotify.)

Her vocal range is very impressive, especially as she sometimes hit very high, very pure tones. And also very expressive. I also particularly liked the drummer, who was unafraid to play strong fills. Jazzmeia explained most members of the band had only assembled for the evening, which was especially impressive as the music was note perfect throughout.

We enjoyed looking about the Kennedy Center, and especially the permanent exhibit about JFK and the arts. The exhibit had many letters from famous artists, poets, musicians and entertainers written to JFK for his inauguration. Overall, it traces the relationship between JFK and the arts.

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