Paradigm Shift Jazz 

Saturday. August 23, 2025 - 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Main Stage

Get ready to groove with Paradigm Shift, a powerhouse trio hailing from Rochester, NY, that has been captivating audiences worldwide for nearly three decades. Founded by guitarist Mel Henderson and organist Gerry Youngman, the group emerged in the early ’90s with a mission to bring fresh energy to neo-jazz through organic, funky grooves and a vibrant, street-level ambiance. Their sound took an exciting turn in the mid-2000s with the addition of drummer-composer Sean Jefferson, whose orchestral sensibility and forward-thinking style completed Paradigm Shift’s unique, soulful approach.

Drawing from a golden era of jazz clubs and having performed alongside legends such as Jack McDuff, Dr. Lonnie Smith, and Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Paradigm Shift fuses old-school grit with modern flair. Their acclaimed albums—Shifting Times and Street Expressionism—showcase collaborations with top-tier musicians, including Wycliffe Gordon, Joe Locke, Gray Mayfield, and Marcus Printup. Whether delivering a timeless standard or a fresh original, Paradigm Shift keeps it raw and vibrant, proving that jazz remains an ever-evolving art form.

Don’t miss this dynamic trio at the Northwest Jazz Festival, where they’ll bring their signature funk-infused grooves, electrifying improvisations, and undeniable spirit to the stage—promising an unforgettable performance for jazz lovers and newcomers alike.