Brian Jasper Hull and trumpeter Kirk Knuffke first met in Fort Collins, Colorado in 1997 when Hull was putting together the funk and jazz band Meadowlark Jivin. At the time, Knuffke was playing jazz in a high school jazz ensemble and Hull recognized something striking not only in the way Knuffke played but also Knuffke’s vibe. He had a swagger and confidence that most 17-year-old musicians don’t have until much later in life. Hull could tell that Knuffke was onto something.

Fast forward 26 years and both Hull and Knuffke have continued down their respective musical paths. Knuffke relocated to New York City and has carved out a name for himself as an internationally known jazz cornetist, releasing over 20 albums over the past two decades. So when Hull asked Knuffke if he would be interested in coming back to Colorado for a sort of musical homecoming, he was thrilled that Knuffke answered with a resounding, yes! On Sunday, April 2, the BJH Trio and Knuffke will bring their shared love of jazz, improvisation, poetry, blues and songwriting to the Crown Pub for a unique evening of live music that defies easy categorization.

In addition to this performance, both Hull and Knuffke will be hosting The Art of Improvisation and Songwriting, a two day interactive workshop at the Wolverine from April 1-2. https://www.wolverinefarm.org/event/the-art-of-improvisation-and-songwriting-a-2-day-creative-workshop/