Master drummer Winard Harper, joined by Jeli Possę, brings a powerful and joyful celebration of the African American musical tradition to the Avram Theater.

Drawing from the electrifying rhythms of New Orleans, the deep soul of Chicago, and the swinging, blues-infused grooves of Kansas City, Feelin’ The Spirit traces the roots of jazz as sacred, communal, and rhythm-driven music. The program blends spirituals, blues, gospel, and hard-swinging jazz, honoring the lineage that connects past masters to today’s vibrant improvisers.

A longtime member of the legendary Harper Brothers and a driving force in modern jazz, Winard Harper is renowned for his explosive energy, deep groove, and commanding sense of swing. Together with Jeli Possę, he creates an uplifting, rhythm-forward performance that is as danceable as it is deeply rooted in tradition.

Feelin’ The Spirit is an evening of music that moves the body, lifts the spirit, and celebrates jazz as a living, breathing cultural force.