This summer, the Kente Arts Alliance is presenting a series of three energetic and engaging concerts at City of Asylum, with special focus on the art and music of the African Diaspora. The first concert in this series presents the Winston Bell Quartet, who share the stage with spoken word artist Jacquea Mae.

The livestream for this program will begin at 6:30, after the in-person welcome period at City of Asylum.

Winston Bell comes from a musical family. His grandfather, Charles Bell Sr., was a jazz artist and educator. His father, Charles “Poogie” Bell Jr., is a world- renowned drummer, producer, and Grammy winner. Winston began playing the bass at the age of six, and by the age of 11 he was also playing the saxophone. His influences on the instrument are John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, and Maceo Parker, whose music he credits with helping him cultivate his own unique sound.

Jacquea Mae is a Pittsburgh Spoken Word artist. She has graced the stages of productions in Pittsburgh, Switzerland, Ghana, and beyond. In 2022, Jacquea wrote her first play, Steel in My Veins, her own life story. Jacquea continues to receive rave reviews for her powerful and passionate performances.

Kente Summer Madness: Winston Bell Quartet & Jacquea Mae