John Petrucelli "The Endurance of Optimism Tour"

Join us on Friday, December 4th, as we welcome back blazing saxophonist John Petrucilli and his jazz trio featuring John Shannon (guitar), and Zaire Darden (drums)!

Doors: 7:00pm

Show: 8:00pm

Tickets: General Admission ($20 in advance, $25 at the door)

“A musician with a burning desire to explore.”

All About Jazz

Saxophonist and composer John Petrucelli creates music rooted in the jazz tradition while embracing the possibilities of contemporary improvisation. His compositions balance melodic clarity with harmonic exploration, rhythmic complexity, and spontaneous interaction, drawing on the language of the great tenor saxophone innovators while pursuing a distinctly personal musical voice.

His latest album, The Endurance of Optimism, released October 2, 2026, captures an intimate live performance in Salt Lake City with guitarist Christopher Kaukali and drummer Jacob Porter. Recorded unexpectedly on an iPhone, the album documents the trio's chemistry through original compositions, reimagined standards, and extended improvisation. The recording marks Petrucelli's return as a recording artist after eight years and reflects his commitment to musical exploration, creative independence, and the enduring power of optimism.

Petrucelli has performed with Geri Allen, Terence Blanchard, Victor Lewis, Billy Hart, Sullivan Fortner, Geoffrey Keezer, and others. He holds a PhD in Music from the University of Pittsburgh and has held academic appointments at Oberlin Conservatory, The University of Utah, Carnegie Mellon University, and Rutgers University.

He is also the founder of PETRUCELLI, an artist-owned professional saxophone brand that brings his experience as a performing musician into the world of instrument design.

The Endurance of Optimism Tour brings his original music and improvisational approach to audiences throughout the Northeast and Midwest in December 2026.