Myra Melford with Ben Goldberg, Gordon Grdina, and more

Jazz pianist and composer Myra Melford, born in Evanston, Illinois, is known for her virtuosic improvisation and spiritual focus. Emerging in 1990 with her trio's debut "Jump," she gained international acclaim by 1996. Influenced by Don Pullen and Henry Threadgill, Melford has collaborated with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Allison Miller's Boom Tic Boom, and more. Notable works include "Dance Beyond the Color" and "Snowy Egret." Awards include a Guggenheim Fellowship and a Doris Duke Artist Award. She’s also recognized for incorporating global influences, having studied in India on a Fulbright scholarship.