Far more than a talent scout, booker and promoter, the Catskill Jazz Factory is nothing short of a jazz incubator and advancement league. Located improbably in the center of Catskill ski territory, CJF identifies, develops and abides the brightest young stars of jazz (and remember, 40 is still pretty young in that world). With its other arm, CJF works tirelessly to develop the conditions for a robust jazz appreciation and marketplace, in the form of promotional partners, venues and audiences. Their focus is international, but because their home is in these thar hills, we reap a disproportionate benefit from their passion and know-how.
In what strikes me as a major development, CJF now teams with Radio Woodstock on Caribbean Music Factory, a performance at Utopia Soundstage by the widely heralded Trinidadian trumpeter and composer Etienne Charles on Saturday, November 30. This world premiere features “history in the making” (Boston Globe) vocalist Shenel Johns, Thelonious Monk Institute Jazz Saxophone Competition finalist Godwin Louis, renowned bassist Russell Hall (Wynton Marsalis, Jon Batiste and Stay Human), CJF fan favorite pianist Mathis Picard (Mwenso and the Shakes, Bria Skonberg) and drummer Savannah Harris. Ticket prices range from $25 to $45.
Caribbean Music Factory, Saturday, Nov. 30, 8 p.m., $25-$45, Utopia Soundstage, 293 Tinker St., Woodstock, www.catskilljazzfactory.org
Join the family! 
