XO Brass Artist John Fedchock Honors J.J. Johnson At Two Concerts This Week! John Fedchock’s JJ Johnson Centennial Tribute Fri., Oct. 11, 8 p.m., BLU Jazz+, 47 E. Market St., Akron Thu., Oct. 17, 7 p.m. BOP STOP, 2920 Detroit Rd., Cleveland Learn more here: https://johnchacona.com/lets-play-two-john-fedchock-honors-j-j-johnson-at-two-concerts-this-week/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF0tGJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHakY3XL9zYdR58FoaEySkz-Srloqqf25XzIpqaDBM6dtrGm0eyDHijG2Zg_aem_v6GgmI5RGvJSGDER52FvIw

Accomplished trombonist Sam Keedy, recognized for his contributions as both a performer and arranger, has joined the distinguished artist roster of XO Brass. Keedy, who began playing the trombone at the age of eleven under the tutelage of Paul McKee, has appeared at notable venues such as Abbey Road, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, and Tokyo TUC Jazz Club, as well as major festivals including the Monterey, Vail, and Telluride Jazz Festivals. A graduate of the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, Keedy has emerged as one of the most formidable artists of his generation. He has collaborated with celebrated musicians like Maria Schneider, Brian Lynch, and Chucho Valdés, and has shared the stage with industry luminaries including Regina Carter, Vince Mendoza, Anat Cohen, and Derrick Hodge. Currently based in Miami, Keedy continues to perform, compose, and teach, leading his own ensembles and serving as lead trombonist for the Henry Mancini Institute and the Etienne Charles Creole Orchestra. Reflecting on his instrument of choice, Keedy notes, "The most important qualities I seek in a horn are the sound quality and the ease of play. My 1632 XO Gold Brass Trombone exceeds expectations on both fronts, allowing the music to flow seamlessly." Sam's artist page: https://www.xobrass.com/us/artists/sam-keedy

Zach Marley, an acclaimed low brass artist and educator from Louisville, Kentucky, is the latest addition to the roster of affiliated educational artists within the KHS America Academic Alliance representing Jupiter and XO brass instruments. Marley is celebrated for his exceptional skill across all low brass instruments and has earned recognition in international competitions for his remarkable performances. Marley’s talents have been featured on numerous recordings, films, and video games. He also shares his expertise with a wide audience through his popular Instagram and YouTube channel, Low Brass U, which has garnered millions of views and inspired countless musicians. As a versatile performer, Marley excels in a variety of musical styles and serves as the bass trombonist for the Fargo Moorhead Symphony Orchestra and the JazzMN Jazz Ensemble. In the fall of 2024, Marley will begin a new role as the instructor of tuba and euphonium at Lawrence Conservatory, where he will continue to share his passion for music education. Marley expressed appreciation for his collaboration with the KHS, stating, "Over the last year, I have thoroughly enjoyed playing XO and Jupiter low brass instruments for my professional performances, teaching, and recording sessions. It is rare to find an instrument manufacturer that truly cares about their artists and listens to their feedback. I am happy to have found these traits in XO and Jupiter." #xobrass Zach's artist page: https://www.xobrass.com/us/artists/zach-marley