Bandstand Presents

THE MISSION:

Evolving from a single quarantine project (“Off The Bandstand”), Bandstand Presents is an Austin-based production company, committed to the inclusivity, visibility, and collaboration of jazz scenes across the nation.

Founded by vocalist, bandleader, lyricist and producer, Christian Wiggs, and producer Kirk Word, Bandstand highlights not only the brilliant talents and contributions of these jazz musicians, but celebrates the personalities that are integral to the art they create.

In Fall 2021, Bandstand Presents began producing their program “The Residency” - a highly concentrated week focused on the integration of guest artists into the Austin jazz community from various scenes across the country. The program includes episodes of “Off The Bandstand”, collaborative shows with the Christian Wiggs Big Band, featured showcases at Monks Jazz Club, clinics and masterclasses at educational institutions, and facilitating jam sessions at The Elephant Room.

To date, “The Residency” has featured artists including Bryan Carter, Martina DaSilva, Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, Benny Benack III, Steven Feifke, Aubrey Logan, Dan “Chimy” Chmielinski, Mathis Picard, Daniel Foose, Clark Sommers, George Fludas, Geof Bradfield, Tatiana “Ladymay” Mayfield, Robert Edwards and Kate Kortum.

In their first year, Bandstand has had a national presence - their work being featured through NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers, ABC World News Now, NPR Live Sessions, Playbill, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Broadway World, SXSW Conference and Festival, JAZZIZ, Queerty, Pride.com, and Sirius XM.

Emphasizing the need for diversity in programming, Bandstand has partnered with Tony Award-winning drummer, vocalist, and composer Bryan Carter to produce Jazz At Pride - a celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community within the jazz community. The show featured an array of vocalists from the queer community, supported by a 30-piece orchestra. Their annual season includes performances from Jazz at Lincoln Center in Manhattan to Austin, TX.

Working directly with La Reserve Records, Bandstand has established itself as a record label. The two labels have co-released records from Tony Award-winner Bryan Carter (I Believe), GRAMMY Award-winner Steven Feifke (Catalyst, The Role of the Rhythm Section), and Benny Benack III. (Third Time's The Charm). In Fall 2023, Bandstand will release records from Kate Kortum (Good Woman) and John Lake. (ensemble | in situ)

With educational investment being a paramount goal, Bandstand has facilitated partnerships with developmental institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, New School of Music Austin and the Women in Jazz Association.