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Live at Lucille’s brings the tradition of exciting and innovative PBS music programming right here to East Tennessee. Featuring acclaimed jazz artists performing in an intimate setting, these shows are taped in front of a live audience at the new, state-of-the-art Regas Square Events space in downtown Knoxville. The shows are later broadcast on PBS stations across the state.

Trombonist Roland Barber enjoys a career full of diverse and exciting musical pursuits at the highest level. Roland has achieved a powerful, soulful and spiritual artistry as a jazz performer, so much so that Curtis Fuller (John Coltrane’s only trombonist) exclaimed upon hearing him, “Now THAT’s what jazz trombone is all about!” Roland’s style is a synthesis of jazz’s finest elements – sporting a keen, fluent command of the bebop language, tempered with a compelling sense of melodic “voice” that’s rooted in the swagger and soul of the blues and swing traditions. Roland employs a warm, personal tone that is lyrical and full, yet ready to burn with heat and intensity when the moment presents itself. Roland is also known for his masterful plunger-mute playing – a gem in the music of jazz that goes back to Tricky Sam Nanton of Ellington’s orchestra and a study has been passed down the generations, most directly to Roland through mentors Steve Turre and Al Grey.