Jo Ann Daugherty & Friends perform at the Smart as part of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival, a weekend of free performances at cultural venues throughout the neighborhood.

FREE, open to all. 

About the Performers

Jo Ann Daugherty got her professional start playing jazz clubs in Kansas City. As a pianist, composer, arranger, conductor, musical director, and recording artist, Daugherty’s love for all kinds of music shines. Whether sharing the stage with jazz luminaries such as Victor Goines, Conrad Jerwig, John Abercrombie, Randy Brecker, and Howard Levy; conducting or playing keyboards in hit Broadway shows (Jesus Christ Superstar; Motown: The Musical; Jersey Boys; Dreamgirls; Billy Elliot); or music-directing and arranging PBS concert specials, she brings an infectious energy to each project.

She has had the fortune, as either bandleader or collaborator, of performing at many prestigious jazz venues and events including Satchmo SummerFest; Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro; Chickie Wah Wah; Dizzy’s at Lincoln Center; and Smoke Jazz Club; along with Chicago favorites including Chicago Jazz Festival; Green Mill, Winter's Jazz Club, Jazz Showcase, and Andy’s Jazz Club.

Current projects close to her heart include an ongoing collaboration with saxophonist Victor Goines, the new Acoustic Tribute to Al Jarreau (with vocalist Bruce Henry and guitarist Henry Johnson), and an ongoing trio engagement on Monday nights at Bandera Restaurant on Michigan Avenue in Chicago.

Daugherty’s most recent album, Bring Joy, earned a four-star review from Downbeat and was listed as one of their Best Albums of 2017. Previously, she released two albums, Range of Motion and Debut, to enthusiastic reception by critics and listeners alike. Based in Chicago, Daugherty is currently traveling all over the U.S. to bring joy to people through music.

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