Cyrus Chestnut featuring Carla Cook

Main Stage Session 5 | Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM

Join us for a truly unforgettable evening with Cyrus Chestnut, accompanied by acclaimed vocalist Carla Cook, as they bring a dynamic blend of jazz, gospel, blues, and swing to the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival Main Stage. Cyrus’ virtuosity on piano paired with Carla’s soulful and expressive vocals promises a performance rich in improvisation, storytelling, and emotional depth — a celebration of the jazz tradition and its modern innovations.

About Cyrus Chestnut

Born in 1963 in Baltimore, Maryland, Cyrus Chestnut began playing piano at age three, performing at his father’s church by six, and studying classical music at the Peabody Preparatory Institute by nine. Raised in a household steeped in gospel music, Cyrus’ early influences shaped the soulful foundation that permeates his work.

He studied jazz composition and arranging at Berklee College of Music in Boston, graduating in 1985 and earning numerous accolades, including the Eubie Blake Fellowship and the Oscar Peterson, Quincy Jones, and Count Basie awards. Early in his career, Cyrus performed with jazz luminaries including Wynton Marsalis, Donald Harrison, Terence Blanchard, and Freddie Hubbard. A pivotal moment came during his tenure with vocalist Betty Carter, whose mentorship encouraged him to “take chances” and develop his adventurous style.

As a bandleader, Cyrus released landmark albums such as There’s a Brighter Day Coming, The Nutman Speaks, Revelation, The Dark Before The Dawn, EarthStories, and Soul Food, the latter featuring Christian McBride and Lewis Nash. His interpretations, including the acclaimed A Charlie Brown Christmas (2000), showcase his ability to blend jazz, gospel, and classical elements seamlessly.

Cyrus has collaborated with jazz legends like Chick Corea, Benny Golson, Dizzy Gillespie, Kathleen Battle, and Isaac Hayes, while continually leading his trio and performing internationally. His music combines a profound understanding of jazz history with a unique voice that embraces both tradition and innovation, making him one of the preeminent pianists and composers in modern jazz.