High energy jazz group, well versed in many different genres. This group has the ability to play quiet background music as well as give an engaging full concert. Group can also transform into one of the best cover bands to provide the ultimate dance party experience for weddings, anniversaries, and other special ocassions.
Al Strong and the Fresh Five provided the music during our networking reception and set the tone for an evening of connection and conversation. The musicians were easy to work with, arrived on time, set up quickly and matched the mood of the crowd with their selections. It was a great evening thanks to their contributions.
We hired Al Steong for a Mardi Gras event. The band was amazing and the team was very easy to work with.
While we were sorry to lose Al to a special event in Chicago, he set us up with his band who was OFF THE HOOK! Everyone at our party raved about the band. I could not have hoped for a better experience. Well, having Al there would have kicked it to an 11.
Al Strong and his band were a highlight of our company event. Their music created a perfect atmosphere as people enjoyed food, cocktails, and networking. Many people commented on how lovely the music was. They arrived on time, set up, and played incredibly for the duration of our entire event. I would highly recommend Al Strong and his band for any occasion.
Price Range: $500-$4000
Languages: English
Clients can expect their expectations met with regard to group size and service preference. If client desires quiet background music, so that guests may talk comfortably with one another, then musicians will be sent to satisfy this preference. If client desires more of a concert and/or party vibe, those requests are also met. Musicians arrive professionally dressed and ready to provide the requested service.
AL STRONG: ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
ABOUT AL STRONG
Al Strong is an award-winning trumpet player, composer, recording artist and educator. A cultural innovator, he is the co-founder of the Art of Cool Project, which spawned the original Art of Cool Music Festival in Durham, N.C. and the stArt of Cool youth summer camp.
Strong is lauded for his distinctively unique sound. Whether melting hearts at a whisper volume or being gracefully dynamic when the music calls for more intensity, his natural ability to strike listeners at their core is unmatched. His 2016 debut album, LoveStrong Vol. 1, a 10-song mix of original music and jazz classics, garnered national and international attention for its “blues-inflicted, Southern church-happy” sound.
A native of Washington, D.C., Strong is a graduate of the renowned Duke Ellington School for the Performing Arts and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies from North Carolina Central University and a Master’s in Jazz Performance / Pedagogy from Northern Illinois University.
Strong’s discipline and dedication to his craft has forged a prominent career that includes performances with music legends such as Aretha Franklin, The Count Basie Orchestra, Dwele, Eric Roberson, and The Hamiltones. He’s also served as music director for hip-hop pioneer Rakim and has headlined shows at the Blue Note Jazz Festival, Winter Jazz Fest, and Blues Alley.
Known for his creative ability to seamlessly re-imagine existing works like Thelonious Monk’s “Blue Monk” and the classic “My Favorite Things,” Strong aims to challenge the boundaries of music while connecting with his audiences.
He continues this mission of storytelling with his latest project "Love Stronger", available through Virgin Music/Lightyear Entertainment August 19, 2022 on all digital platforms.
For more information on Al Strong’s musical journey, visit (link hidden).
| December 10, 2024 • 5:30pm - 7:30pm | Cocktail Party |
| January 17, 2024 • 5:00pm - 6:30pm | Nonprofit Event |
| October 27, 2022 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm | Corporate Event |
| September 17, 2022 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | Birthday Party |
| July 16, 2022 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Birthday Party |
Influences include:
Ray Charles
Mary Lou Williams
Miles Davis
Tower of Power
Wynton Marsalis
Earth Wind and Fire
Steely Dan
John Coltrane
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