Jaden Evans and Bill Evans - Evans on Evans (2024)

At just 16 years old, Jaden Evans is already making waves in the jazz world with the release of his debut album, "Evans on Evans." A prodigious talent on the piano, Jaden grew up surrounded by music, being the grandson of the legendary jazz pianist Bill Evans. Inspired by his grandfather's timeless recordings, innovative harmonic approach and contributions to the jazz trio format, Jaden began formal training the piano at the age of six, receiving lessons from his mother, Michele Evans, who taught him to read classical music as well as understand jazz charts and the fundamentals of improvisation. He studied for a few years with Michael Preddy and is now under the tutelage of Charles Chen.

He joined the jazz band in middle school, then played in the top high school jazz band, the Jazz Ambassadors, winning 1st place(in the combo division) at the Charles Mingus Jazz Competition in NYC. He has performed at the Brevard Music Center Jazz, the UNC Greensboro Honors HS Jazz Band clinic and the Jim Ketch Jazz Festival. He won the “Outstanding Soloist” award at the Elon University Jazz Festival. He is currently 1st chair in the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble, which regularly competes at the Essentially Ellington Big Band Competition in NYC.

With a deep respect for the traditions of jazz and a passion for exploring new sounds, Jaden has crafted an album that honors his grandfather’s musical legacy while showcasing his unique voice. His playing is a blend of intricate improvisation and emotive storytelling, earning him recognition as one of the brightest young stars in jazz.

"Evans on Evans" is a heartfelt tribute to Bill Evans’ influence and a bold statement of his own artistic vision. As Jaden steps into the spotlight, he carries forward the Evans name with pride, poised to make his own mark on the world of jazz.

Tracklist
1. Peri's Scope (03:58)
2. Re: Person I Knew (04:31)
3. For Nenette (04:52)
4. Very Early (04:35)
5. Turn Out The Stars (05:31)
6. Five (05:03)
7. Time Remembered (04:00)
8. Waltz For Debby (05:56)
9. Peace Piece (05:38)