Free Jazz Sunday Featuring The Connor Forsyth Trio

ABOUT THE BAND:

Connor Forsyth began his musical journey with classical piano before studying under jazz legend Ellis Marsalis in New Orleans. He co-founded The Belleville Outfit, an acclaimed Americana group that toured nationally, released two albums, and earned a nomination for Best New and Emerging Artist by the Americana Music Association. After the band disbanded, Connor performed with Phoebe Hunt, Ghosts Along the Brazos, and Ray Price, before joining 10-time Grammy winners Asleep at the Wheel, touring the U.S. and Europe from 2016–2022. He has played alongside icons like Willie Nelson, George Strait, James Taylor, Paul Simon, and Bonnie Raitt. Now based in Port Angeles, WA, he runs Forsyth Instruments, crafting bespoke guitars.

Jonas Myers is a musician, writer, and teacher with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. As a pianist, he performed at Lincoln Center, Montreux Jazz Festival, and Umbria Jazz Festival. After gaining recognition in Seattle’s jazz scene, he embarked on a transformative West Coast bicycle journey in 2018, later releasing the album Driving Home. In 2021, he created the YouTube variety show North City Almanac and earned an MFA in fiction from OSU. Now in Port Townsend, WA, he continues performing and teaching music.

Sammy J Watson has toured and recorded extensively, including with The Apex Theory. A graduate of Musicians Institute, he’s played Ozzfest, Vans Warped Tour, and Snow Core, and spent over 18 years teaching at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA. A master of diverse styles—rock, jazz, fusion, reggae, and more—he emphasizes odd-meter grooves and stylistic versatility. He authored Drumming D.N.A. and released his solo album KaleidosCope in 2022. Sammy is endorsed by Gretsch Drums, Sabian Cymbals, and Vater Drum Sticks.

Free Jazz Sunday is a monthly event series at Field Hall and is made possible through the support of Black Diamond Farms and local donors; if you’d like to support this series, please consider a donation at checkout or during the event.