Dr. James R. Gore is a visionary leader whose work spans media production, education, and community empowerment. A triple graduate of Seattle University, he has carved out a distinguished career as the CEO of Ariel Media, a dynamic marketing, research, media, and consulting organization serving one of the nation’s largest media markets. With an eye for innovation and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Dr. Gore has significantly influenced how urban narratives are told and experienced in the Seattle/Tacoma/Everett area.

Beyond his executive role, Dr. Gore is a dedicated educator and community advocate. He founded the Jackson Street Music Program, an experiential learning initiative designed to expose urban youth to the transformative power of the arts and higher education. This program not only provides free concert tickets, backstage encounters, and specialized seminars for students, but also works to ensure that young people from diverse backgrounds are equipped with the skills and inspiration necessary to thrive in the creative industries.

With three decades of experience as a music producer under his belt, Dr. Gore has played a pivotal role in curating and producing jazz concerts that celebrate talent in all its forms. His productions, including the renowned Jazz in the City series, have consistently provided platforms for musicians to share their artistry, challenging traditional market biases and fostering an environment where genuine musical talent is the star.

Moreover, as an influential voice on cultural and social issues, Dr. Gore has contributed thoughtful commentary on the role of jazz and the African American experience. His reflections on jazz as a profound expression of Black cultural identity underscore his belief in the power of art as a tool for societal dialogue and change. Through his writings and media engagements, he continues to highlight how music not only entertains but also educates and inspires—linking history with the present in a vibrant narrative of resilience and creativity.

Dr. James R. Gore’s multifaceted career stands as a testament to his commitment to elevating voices, enriching communities, and redefining the cultural landscape. His work continues to inspire both the current generation and those who will shape the future of urban arts and education.

Darrius Willrich is a singer, songwriter, pianist, and educator from Seattle, WA. He is a Cornish College of the Arts graduate with a degree in jazz piano.  He is on faculty at Seattle Central College, North Seattle Continuing Education, JazzEd, Off The Wall Music and Seattle Drum School (Lake City) as a piano and vocal instructor. He is the creator of the Critical Sun Recordings and Critical Sun Publishing. Darrius is currently the keyboard player for Digable Planets. He is a featured vocalist on Wiz Khalifa’s “Rolling Papers 2” and produced South African rapper Nasty C’s song Overpriced Steak along with Jake One and Sam Wish.

BrandonLee has performed throughout the Pacific Northwest, has been featured on Portland’s KMHD Radio, and has appeared multiple times on Seattle’s KNKX 88.5 Live Studio Sessions. Most recently, he performed under his own name at the 45th Annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival in July 2025.

In July 2020, BrandonLee released his debut album Here Comes a New Challenger, which has garnered over 20,000 streams and earned a spot on KMHD’s “Best Single of the Year.” On July 8th, he followed with the highly anticipated summer EP Thank You for Waiting, featuring LA-based saxophonist Braxton Cook. The project was included on Spotify’s Editorial Playlist “All New Jazz,” amassing over 2 million streams and earning praise from Abe Beeson, host of KNKX’s The New Cool.

BrandonLee’s sophomore album Camaraderie also earned placements on Spotify’s “All New Jazz” and other editorial playlists, and was released through Portland-based label LofiJazzSoul. The album received critical acclaim from jazz writer Paul Rauch of All About Jazz and Robert Ham of the Jazz Society of Oregon. It continues to reach listeners worldwide, landing on major editorial playlists including “All About Jazz” and “Fresh Finds: Jazz.”

BrandonLee’s growing discography earned him a release with the Belgium-based label StereoFox, debuting his EP Pathways. His third studio album Be Water, My Friend is out now on all streaming platforms.

Twice named ”Northwest Vocalist of the Year,” by Earshot Jazz, Gail’s rich, warm vocals and understated phrasing have been described as “deliciously soulful” by Cadence Magazine. Although devoted to the Great American Songbook, this granddaughter of Delta Blues legend Arthur Pettis has been known to slip in a side of blues as well. An Origin/OA2 Records recording artist, she is grateful to have been embraced by listeners with her last CD peaking at #5 on the JazzWeek National Airplay Chart, ending up as the most played new female vocal CD on American jazz radio in the year of its release.

Her love of music has taken her to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Ufa, Ivanova and Perm. She has also represented Seattle in Kobe, Japan as the first-place winner of the Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association audition. She takes equal pleasure in sharing music closer to home and is very excited about returning to BIMA!

Jazz with Jim is a deep dive into this beautiful American art form. Mixing music, photos, and video clips with an infectious lecture style, Jim takes guests on a musical journey that illuminates aspects of American history, jazz giants, social justice, race relations, and music as a universal language.

Experience how the enduring sounds of these musicians continue to resonate, challenge, and uplift listeners today!