The Jazz Gallery, located in Manhattan's Flatiron neighborhood, marks its 30th anniversary this year. Artistic Director Rio Sakairi, who has led programming since 2000, emphasizes a music-driven approach to her role, fostering an environment where artists can explore their sound. Sakairi has played a vital role in the careers of many prominent musicians, such as Robert Glasper and Gretchen Parlato, encouraging innovation and live experimentation. Artists appreciate her frank advocacy for creative expression, uniquely positioning the venue as a launchpad for new talent in the jazz scene.
Sakairi states, "It's really just the music that's driving my decisions... When people ask me what I play, I jokingly say, I play musicians."
Glasper reflects, "The venue was always open to me exploring what was in my mind and working it out live in front of an audience."
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