Al Strong live in Durham

Experience Al Strong live on July 24th

Al Strong will be performing at Sharp 9 Gallery Jazz Club in Durham, North Carolina on July 24, 2026. Strong is a jazz trumpeter and composer known for a style that blends hard bop traditions with elements of avant-garde and free improvisation. His work often features complex harmonic structures and rhythmic interplay, drawing influence from artists like Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard while maintaining a distinctly modern voice. He has released several albums as a leader and has collaborated with numerous figures in contemporary jazz.

Sharp 9 Gallery Jazz Club is a long-standing Durham venue dedicated to presenting live jazz and creative music. Established in 1992 by John Brown, the club initially operated as an art gallery showcasing local artists alongside musical performances. It quickly became recognized for its intimate setting and commitment to showcasing both established and emerging jazz musicians, particularly those involved in more experimental or improvisational forms of the genre. The space is known for its focus on acoustic sound and its support of the local Durham arts community. Over the years, Sharp 9 has hosted national and international touring acts alongside regional talent, becoming a significant fixture in the area's cultural landscape.