April 24: Scottsdale Jazz Festival Hosts Opening Night at Western Spirit Museum

Big Chief Russell Moore performs on trombone on on June 10, 1954 at the Metropole in New York. (Photo by PoPsie Randolph/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

On Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 6 – 8 p.m., Scottsdale residents are invited to enjoy an exclusive evening to celebrate the legacy of Pima Tribe member Russell “Big Chief” Moore with a concert by Doc Jones & Friends at the opening night of the Scottsdale Jazz Festival, held in the sculpture garden at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

Sponsored by the City of Scottsdale, the evening will kick off with an educational session that will celebrate the legacy of Russell “Big Chief” Moore, a Pima tribe member, who grew up on the Gila River Indian community lands before moving to Chicago and then Los Angeles where he learned to play various instruments, eventually settling on trombone. Throughout his career, Moore worked with an array of artists including Frank Sinatra, Lionel Hampton, Alberta Hunter and Pee Wee Russell as well as recording under his own name. He is best remembered for his work as a member of Louis Armstrong’s band.

“We’re looking forward to being a part of this special evening for the Scottsdale Jazz Festival and educating music lovers about Moore’s influence of Native American contributions to jazz,” said Todd Bankofier, CEO of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

The educational session will be followed by a short concert by Doc Jones and Friends, led by the Founder of the International Jazz Day AZ Foundation, William Doc Jones. Who noted that, “Jazz isn’t just music; it’s a cultural expression, a way of storytelling, and a celebration of diversity.”

To attend ($10/person or $8/person for members of Western Spirit), visit www.westernspirit.org.

Attendees are also invited to the Scottsdale Jazz Festival’s grand finale of celebrations taking place at the Scottsdale Civic Center on Saturday, April 26, which will include a dynamic showcase of talent featuring a stellar lineup of acclaimed artists, such as Rick Braun and Richard Elliot. From smooth melodies to powerful rhythms, the event will highlight the diverse styles and emotional depth that make jazz an enduring art form.

Visitors can enjoy a day of unparalleled performances in the scenic surroundings of the  recently renovated Civic Center. The festival welcomes music lovers of all ages and offers a family-friendly environment where the legacy of jazz can be celebrated together.

“We’re excited to unite the community and honour the timeless impact of jazz with these remarkable events.” commented William Doc Jones, Founder of the International Jazz Day AZ Foundation.

For more information on the Scottsdale Jazz Festival, visit www.scottsdalejazzfest.org.

For more information on Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West and their upcoming exhibits, expansion and events, visit www.westernspirit.org, call 480.686.9539 or follow them on social media at @smowest on Instagram and Facebook.com/westernspiritmuseum.