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.

Influenced by a wide range of artists—including poets June Jordan and Victoria Chang, composers Joni Mitchell and Maurice Ravel, and drummers Billy Hart and Terri Lyne Carrington—Elodia’s work is richly layered and emotionally resonant. A 2022 MacDowell Fellow in Composition, he has been recognized by ASCAP, Avaloch Farm, South Arts, and other arts organizations. His band has toured nationally and led master classes at institutions like Yale, Oberlin Conservatory, and the University of Denver.

For his Within Earshot Jazz Festival performance, Elodia and his band will perform music inspired by fruit, fluttering eyelids, the textuality of grief, and the quiet drama of living with roommates.

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!