Jae Sinnett Trio with Justin Kauflin June 16, 2006

On rare occasions, a musical prodigy appears on the scene. Here's an opportunity to catch one as 18-year old Justin Kauflin of Virginia Beach joins drummer Jae Sinnett and bassist Terry Burrell in an evening of jazz at the Williamsburg Library Theatre on Friday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students with ID and $6 for those under 16. They can be purchased at the Williamsburg Library, 515 Scotland Street, two blocks north of Merchants Square, or with MasterCard or Visa at (757) 259-4070. This is the final concert in this season's Dewey Decibel Concert series.

Justin, a rising junior at William Patterson University in New Jersey and a graduate of Salem High School in Virginia Beach, has been blind since the age of 12 as a result of a degenerative disease. Jazz music took over as the main focus from the normal pursuits of a teenager video games, TV and sports. Justin feels his blindness was a motivator. He says, If I didnt lose my vision, I wouldnt be where I am. Thats when I started to take music seriously. Its like I didnt have anything else, and I needed something to occupy my time. Being blind gave me an advantage.

At the piano, Justin, 19, has an improvisational zeal matched by a technique that is equal parts lyrical and emotional. His sound can be best described as dynamic and vibrant, with a genuine sense of feeling and appreciation for the soulful essence in jazz music. Although classically trained, Justin prefers the improvisational opportunity jazz provides, which is readily apparent in his mastery of the piano. His selections include the traditional standards, original compositions and 100% improvisational jazz.

Jae Sinnett discovered the pianist while leading the Governors School of the Arts Big Band. He recognized Justin's talent and invited him to join his trio for some local concerts. The trio has also performed in the noted jazz club Blues Alley in Washington.

Sinnett is the director of jazz programming at Hampton Roads public radio, WHRV-FM (89.5). A talented percussionist, Jaes music repertoire includes jazz standards and his own original compositions. He has performed with some of the biggest names in jazz including Branford and Ellis Marsalis, Joe Henderson, Freddie Hubbard, Chuck Mangione, Charlie Byrd and Herb Ellis. His previous concerts at the Williamsburg Library have featured such artists as Grammy-winners Cyrus Chestnut, Charlie Byrd and Randy Brecker, as well as noted pianists Fred Hersch and Lynne Arriale.

Event submitted by Eventful.com on behalf of programs.