Wednesday Night Live: Jazz From the Heart

Wednesday Night Live: Jazz From the Heart is an in-gallery show and conversation inspired by the exhibition From the Heart: The John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art. The evening highlights the exhibition's many jazz undertones, serving as a soundtrack to the iconic Black artists of the 20th century.

Curated by beloved musician Harvey Cummings, this performance includes stories and educational elements that inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds – particularly surrounding the history of jazz icons, and how their artistry connects with iconic Black visual artists of their time.

Masterful musician Harvey Cummings II, a native of Charlotte, has taken the world of music by storm with his unmatched talent and remarkable versatility. As an award-winning saxophonist, pianist, songwriter, and producer, Cummings has created a unique sound that seamlessly blends jazz, hip-hop, and soul, providing listeners with an extraordinary auditory experience.

At the forefront of the modern jazz movement, Cummings leads his captivating ensemble, The Harvey Cummings Project. Their performances have graced the stages of prestigious festivals and have mesmerized audiences on television and podcast series alike. The list of clients they have collaborated with is awe-inspiring, including luminaries such as President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Michael Jordan. Additionally, Cummings has worked alongside esteemed organizations and entities like Blumenthal Performing Arts, CRVA, Lowe's, CLTure, The Carolina Panthers, The ACC, CIA, and MEAC Conferences, The National Urban League, Creative Mornings, The Links, Jack & Jill of America, most D9 organizations, and 20th Century Fox's Our Kind of People. Harvey directed various musical performances at Super Bowl 50 in San Jose, California.