Jazz at the Fort, in partnership with Berklee College of Music, presents George W. Russell Jr. and Company

About George W. Russell Jr.

Prior to becoming chair of the Harmony and Jazz Composition Department, George W. Russell Jr. served as a professor of harmony and piano. He has been awarded the Ted Pease Award for Excellence in Teaching, along with the Curriculum Development Award for the Writing Division. He has also been recognized with the highest award that Berklee gives to faculty, the Most Distinguished Faculty Award. Russell’s motto is, “I would rather inspire than require.” He is known as a source of encouragement and inspiration to anyone who crosses paths with him.

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Russell is a performer, composer, and educator. He began taking piano lessons when he was 7 years old. Along with studying formally, he had the fortune of growing up playing at his local church. There was no written music at church, so he was given the opportunity to develop his ear.

As he continued studying music in college, Russell discovered jazz and the harmonies that are used in jazz. It was then that he began to understand, from a theoretical viewpoint, what exactly he was playing, both in church and in his classical repertoire. In that period of time, his unique fusion of gospel and jazz began to form. His performances range from solo piano to a groove-oriented jazz trio to a soulful, fresh-sounding larger ensemble that arouses the listener's intellect and, most importantly, touches their soul. His playing is filled with passion, fire, soul, and spirit.

Bring a blanket or chair and get ready to dance. In partnership the with Boston Police Department's National Night Out, enjoy the sounds of Stone Gon.

Bring a blanket or chair and get ready to dance.

About Terraplane Lane

Terraplane Lane are a multi-genre blues, soul, and funk-influenced, six piece band from the South Shore of Massachusetts that formed in 2024. Drummer Jeremy Sheehan and harmonica innovator Stu Barer, (who influenced the beginnings of the band’s signature “reed section”— a gritty, horn-style ensemble that would later pair harmonica and saxophone) laid the foundation.

The two would soon recruit bassist Gregg Marcus, as well as the young and soulful frontman Benjamin Sangiolo. Their early sets featured underplayed jump blues and classic soul tunes but would quickly shift when Gregg crossed paths with local solo artist Jason Cardinal. Jason’s arrival brought a second lead vocalist, keyboards, original songwriting, and a genre-bending spirit that reshaped the band’s identity

With the final addition of saxophonist David Stringham, Terraplane Lane locked in their lineup and launched a sound with equal parts vintage grit, heartfelt groove, and spontaneous joy. Their performances blend timeless covers, powerful originals, and surprising renditions and mashups. In February 2026, they began recording their debut album while building out their original music catalogue for future releases.

Bring a blanket or chair and get ready to dance.

About Divas with a Twist

Divas with a Twist is a Boston-based musical group that features five powerhouse female vocalists with professional theatre backgrounds, combined with Grammy nominated musicians.

Looking for a music project that was different from the typical band, this group of talented performers have collaborated to create a dynamic night of musical entertainment! They perform pop, rock, R&B, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s music, as well as current hits with tight harmonies and original arrangements that are fresh and exciting! This is one show you do not want to miss.

Bring a blanket or chair and get ready to dance.

About Search Party

If you're searching for a band that combines world-class musicianship with two of Boston's finest front vocalists, look no further than Search Party! Ranging from classic Motown to current Top 40 hits, this dynamic eight-piece band knows how to keep a party moving!

Bring a chair or blanket and your dancing shoes.

About Be Kind Rewind

The 1990s are back! Be Kind Rewind is an authentic tribute to 90s alternative, and the most nostalgic band in New England.

Join us for an evening of lovely music in the park.

Music from the JGJ All Stars.