Mike Monford brings afrofuturism to wyldflowr arts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wyldflowr Arts Presents Bebop, Blues & Afrofuturism Masterclass and An Evening of Jazz & Afrofuturism with Mike Monford
Oakland, CA – Saturday, September 30
Wyldflowr Arts is proud to welcome acclaimed Detroit-based saxophonist, composer, and jazz historian Mike Monford for an inspiring day of music, learning, and cultural exploration on Saturday, September 30 in Oakland.
From 12:00–3:00 PM, Monford will lead "Bebop, Blues & Afrofuturism," an interactive masterclass examining the artistic lineage connecting the blues, bebop, ballads, and Afrofuturist expression. Participants will journey through the sounds and ideas that have shaped modern jazz, exploring the enduring influence of 1960s spiritual jazz, Black creative innovation, and contemporary musical traditions.
Rooted in the legacy of spiritual and Afro-futurist jazz, Monford's music also incorporates elements of hip-hop and soul, creating a sound that bridges generations and genres. A student of legendary saxophonist Jackie McLean, Monford has earned recognition for recordings including Perseverance and the acclaimed live album The Cloth I'm Cut From.
The celebration continues from 4:00–6:00 PM with "An Evening of Jazz & Afrofuturism," a concert featuring an outstanding ensemble of artists:
Mike Monford – Alto Saxophone
Kev Choice – Piano
Destiny Muhammad Trio
Lufuki – Guitar
The performance will feature selections from Monford's latest recording, The Cloth I'm Cut From, alongside compositions by John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Dorothy Ashby, honoring the centennial celebrations of Coltrane and Miles while celebrating the rich continuum of Black musical innovation.
Together, the masterclass and concert offer audiences a unique opportunity to engage with jazz as a living tradition—one that connects history, imagination, community, and future possibilities.
Masterclass: Bebop, Blues & Afrofuturism
Saturday, September 30 | 12:00–3:00 PM
Concert: An Evening of Jazz & Afrofuturism
Saturday, September 30 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Location: Wyldflowr Arts, Oakland
For tickets and additional information, visit Wyldflowr Arts online.
About Wyldflowr Arts
Wyldflowr Arts is an Oakland-based cultural organization dedicated to cultivating creativity, community, and artistic expression through performances, educational programs, and interdisciplinary experiences that celebrate the African diaspora and beyond.