Jazz at Holmes: WashU Student and Faculty Combo ft. James Baba

Throughout the semester, enjoy free live performances by noted local and regional jazz artists at Holmes Lounge in Ridgley Hall on the Danforth campus.  Parking can be accessed at the Danforth University Center (DUC) parking garage.

Our concert is dedicated to Ardan Carlisle, a talented young pianist and mathematics student who performed in the Jazz Combo Program in his first academic year, Fall 2024 before his tragic passing in December. Ardan was a very special musician beyond his years. He played with a sense and sound on his instrument, an individuated expressivity of the musical content he created as a young improviser. His fellow students and other members of the jazz program perform a selection of materials honoring Ardan and his contributions to their group.

Saxophonist James Baba is the featured student soloist in a group highlighting some of our talented students of the jazz performance program. James is a senior double majoring in Computer Science and Economics, with minors in Jazz Studies, and Finance. He has studied with Prof. Lenihan in courses and lessons exploring genres from jazz, pop and classical music, completing an independent study this semester. In 2024 he studied in Madrid and played in local jazz clubs with international musicians. He is passionate in his pursuit of technological skills and the development of his musical creativity. The student group consists of wind players, the rhythm section and voice performing a wide variety of music.