What better way to kick off your weekend than with the coolest cats in town?
Starting Friday, February 27th, Shell on Wheels returns to the Memphis Public Libraries to highlight the smooth sounds of our city. In its 10th year of programming, 5 Fridays of Jazz will feature a rotating lineup of performers who are preserving Memphis’ place in the world of Jazz.
Following every Friday thereafter—throughout the month of March—the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library will play host to talented artists, of which include famed names Joyce Cobb, and come from acclaimed acts such as the Memphis Central High School Band.
To compliment the tunes, tasty food and beverages will be available for purchase, provided by Jus Enuff Concessions and Kaye’s Pints & Scoops.
WHAT: Shell on Wheels Presents 5 Fridays of Jazz
WHO: In partnership with Memphis Library Foundation, The Memphis Public Libraries, The City of Memphis
WHEN: Friday, March 6th | 6:30pm
WHERE: Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library
COST: Free to attend | Food and Drink Available for Purchase
FEATURED ARTIST: Central High Jazz Band
GET TO KNOW THE ARTIST:
Founded in 1909 and known affectionately as “THEE High School” for its distinction as the first high school in Memphis, Central High School has long cultivated a vibrant band tradition at the heart of its culture. The award-winning Memphis Central High School Jazz Band continues this legacy, producing generations of outstanding musicians, including pianist James Williams, saxophonist Gary Topper, and pianist Dr. Ashley Davis.
The ensemble has earned top honors at the University of Memphis Jazz Festival and has been recognized at jazz festivals in St. Louis, Mobile, Disney World, and throughout the Mid-South. Central jazz students are regularly selected for the West Tennessee School Band and Orchestra Association’s All-West Jazz Band and the Tennessee All-State Jazz Band.
In recent years, the Jazz Band has achieved notable statewide and national acclaim. The group performed at the 2022 Tennessee Music Educators Association State Conference and the 2023 Jazz Education Network International Conference. Through a blind peer-review process, the band was named a finalist for the Savannah Swing Central National Jazz Band Competition in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2019—winning first place and the Jean Faircloth Award in 2019. The ensemble was also selected as a finalist for the Essentially Ellington Competition & Festival in 2020, 2021, and 2025, earning 1st Place in 2025.
The Jazz Band is one of several performing ensembles within the comprehensive Central High School band program, which also includes marching band, wind ensemble, symphonic band, concert band, pep band, percussion ensemble, and a variety of other chamber groups.