Denver Jazz Fest: Orrin Evans

Grammy-nominated pianist Orrin Evans performs with his trio, bassist Bob Hurst, and drummer Marvin Smitty Smith at Dazzle, April 9, 2026, as part of the Denver Jazz Fest.

Born in Trenton, NJ, and raised in Philadelphia, PA, home to jazz luminaries John Coltrane, Lee Morgan, McCoy Tyner, Kenny Barron (his former teacher at Rutgers University), and Shirley Scott. Evans, while well-versed in the city’s hard bop tradition, developed a distinctive style and approach to the music. He leads his bands Tarbaby and the Captain Black Big Band.

His resume is a diverse range of collaborations, including Bobby Watson, Nicholas Payton, Ralph Peterson, Christian McBride, Oliver Lake and The Bad Plus.

He recently spoke with KUVO Music Director and Mid-Day host Kim Berry.