Neshawn Bynum Calloway, who teaches voice at Chattanooga's Center for Creative Arts, will inaugurate Jazzanooga's Music Educator Spotlight, a new series celebrating the teachers and mentors who foster talent in younger generations.The Jazzanooga Arts Space, 431 E. M.L. King Blvd., will be animated the rest of the week as three events rotate in and out of the venue. Performances encompass spoken word and music. More information can be found on each at www.jazzanooga.org.
Today, Aug. 25
The Speakeasy Revue. This spoken-word, open-mike session, hosted by Christian Collier, can boast a diverse array of readers and performers since its debut in 2009.
Those interested in performing at this installment may sign up when doors open at 7 p.m. Performances start at 7:30 p.m.
Admission is $10. A cash bar will be available.
Friday, Aug. 26
Nightcap Performance Series. Local progressive jazz band Charlie the Head will deliver its fusion of old standards, original music and modern funk in an 8 p.m. show. Members are Van Todd (drums, percussion), Ryan Crabtree (bass guitar) and Stephen Power (guitars). Keyboardist Aaron Dick is expected to sit in for this show. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10.
Saturday, Aug. 27
Music Educator Spotlight. Neshawn Bynum Calloway, vocal music educator at Center for Creative Arts, is featured in the first installment of this new series.
As organizers explain: "Chattanooga is filled with an array of performers. For every performer there was a teacher/mentor that played a fundamental role in defining their techniques and talents, so we decided to celebrate our educators with the creation of ongoing live performance sessions featuring our teachers."
Calloway is known for a revue of the "Empress of the Blues," Bessie Smith, but her catalog also includes gospel, classical and jazz music.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Calloway sings at 8 p.m. Admission is $10. A percentage of proceeds will go toward school supplies at CCA.