KNKX records and produces exclusive Studio Sessions every month with world-class jazz and blues musicians from around the world and the Northwest. We also like to use Studio Sessions as an opportunity to showcase the talented local students participating in our award-winning School of Jazz program.
Studio Sessions typically last around an hour, but the exact program will depend on the artist. You can usually expect about 15-45 minutes of sound check and mingling, followed by 20-30 minutes of recorded studio session time. This consists of 2 to 3 songs followed by an interview from one of our hosts.
We'd love for you to join us for a session in our new Seattle studios next to Pike Place Market. Below you will find more information about each upcoming Studio Session along with a link to register.
Studio Sessions are very popular and are free to attend.
Please register for only one per three months so others can enjoy the show!
Ballard High School Brass Band
Monday, February 23 at 2:30 p.m.
Hosted by Abe Beeson
Get ready for a real treat when KNKX brings in the 10-piece New Orleans-style brass band from Ballard High School, under the direction of Jay Gillespie and Jazz Instructor and saxophonist Alexis Rosenberg (and member of the Blowout Heavies Brass Band). The Brass Band is just one of BHS' musical offerings, which also include jazz, marching, and pep bands.
REGISTRATION CLOSED
Curtis High School
Monday, March 23 at 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by Abe Beeson
Our March School of Jazz session will feature a combo from Curtis High School under the direction of Jeff Chang, and the mentorship of bassist Bren Plummer. Curtis High School's jazz program showcases strong student involvement in jazz ensembles within the University Place School District.
Affinity Trio
Wednesday, April 8 at 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by Abe Beeson
Affinity Trio consists of Eric Jacobson on trumpet, Clay Schaub on bass, and Pamela York on piano. Collectively, Affinity Trio maintains a steady schedule of performing, touring, and recording. Individually, they have worked with some of the biggest names in the jazz world: Benny Golson, Phil Woods, Jeff Hamilton, John Clayton, Bruce Barth, Brian Lynch, Greg Tardy, and Frank Morgan. Their second album for Origin Records, New Outlook, was released on October 17, 2025. The trio formed in 2021, beginning an ongoing weekly residency at the Mason Street Grill inside Milwaukee's historic Pfister Hotel. Drawing their repertoire from the Great American Songbook, bebop, and their original compositions, Affinity Trio performs without a drummer – creating an intimate ambience with a strong rhythmic groove.
Affinity Trio is performing April 9 at Seattle Jazz Fellowship.
SOLD OUT
Fantastic Negrito
Wednesday, April 22 at 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by John Kessler
Fantastic Negrito is a powerhouse performer whose live shows are charged with emotion, intensity, and connection. Blending Delta blues, soul, funk, and rock, he delivers dynamic sets built on rhythm, storytelling, and fearless expression. The Oakland-born artist — a three-time Grammy winner — has earned a reputation for transforming every show into a deeply engaging, unforgettable experience. From Glastonbury to Newport Folk, Fantastic Negrito captivates audiences with his mix of grit, humor, and raw honesty. His performances turn struggle into celebration, and his songs take on new life each night, reshaped by the moment and the crowd. Since winning NPR’s inaugural Tiny Desk Contest, Fantastic Negrito has shared stages with the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Chris Cornell, and Primus, and has collaborated in the studio with Sting, E-40, Tank and the Bangas, and many others.
KNKX presents Fantastic Negrito at the Triple Door in Seattle on April 22.
SOLD OUT
Lynne Arriale Trio
Friday, April 24 at 12:30 p.m.
Hosted by Abe Beeson
Pianist-composer Lynne Arriale has performed on the most prestigious international concert stages over the past 30 years. JazzTimes says Arriale's music "lies at the synaptic intersection where brain meets heart, where body meets soul. She is one of jazzdom's most intensely unique voices." Being Human, her 17th release as a leader, addresses a troubled, divided world with an exquisite suite of optimistic, deeply felt compositions, which celebrate some of the ways that all of our lives are enriched by acts of passion, courage, love, persistence, heart, soul, curiosity, faith and joy. Many of the songs are dedicated to people who’ve inspired Arriale, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman and Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai. The Lynne Arriale Trio performs at the Triple Door April 23 and 24.
SOLD OUT
