Birdland presents... The Joe Alterman Trio

In collaboration with Birdland Jazz Club in New York, we present to you "first-class entertainer" Joe Alterman for a special one-off show at Toulouse Lautrec Jazz Club.

JOE ALTERMAN is an Atlanta-born jazz pianist, composer, writer, and cultural curator who channels the timeless joy of swing with youthful energy and heartfelt enthusiasm.

Praised by legends like Ahmad Jamal as "a very special artist," Les McCann as "tiny but only in stature; as a man and musician, he is already a giant," and Ramsey Lewis as "an inspiration" whose playing is "a joy to behold," Alterman has carved out a singular space in the jazz world.

Whether leading his trio or captivating audiences solo, Alterman’s music has been described by Downbeat Magazine as "hard-swinging" and by the late journalist Nat Hentoff as "making people smile and, if the room is right, dance." With a deep groove, bluesy touch, and an exuberance that's hard to resist, his playing is both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern. His ability to keep the spirit of swing alive has earned admiration from jazz masters. As Monty Alexander put it, “Joe Alterman is doing his part to keep alive the art of the swinging trio. He is a wonderful pianist whose playing brings smiles and good feelings to his listeners.” Similarly, Benny Green calls Alterman “absolutely one of the most musically enjoyable, swingingest jazz pianists who can be heard playing today.”

With eight critically acclaimed albums to his name, including the 2023 release Joe Alterman Plays Les McCann: Big Mo & Little Joe, Alterman continues to evolve as a recording artist while honoring jazz’s deep traditions. His swinging style and infectious enthusiasm have made him a favorite among both jazz devotees and casual listeners. As George Benson once told him, “You play good and you sound good, and there’s a difference.” That difference—the ability to channel joy, soul, and deep connection through every note—is what sets Alterman apart.