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Ilya Lushtak – Jazz Cultural Voices
Ilya Lushtak – Jazz Cultural Voices
PNC Arts Alive Jazz Cultural Voices Series and Clef International are extremely proud to present a unique and dynamic performance featuring Internationally celebrated jazz artist Ilya Rushtak accompanied by Philadelphia’s own Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble. Russian-born Ilya is a New York–based guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader known for his bold groove, harmonic depth, and stylistic range. Raised in San Francisco, he came up under Bay Area jazz legends like Bruce Forman and Bishop Norman Williams before launching a touring career across Europe and Russia in the late 1990s.
From 2003 to 2013, Rushtak was a key member of Frank Wess’s ensemble, performing and recording alongside the saxophone great. Over the years, he’s shared the stage with jazz icons such as Hank Jones, Cedar Walton, Jimmy Cobb, and Dr. Lonnie Smith. His commanding presence has graced top venues including the Village Vanguard, Blue Note, Smalls, and Dizzy’s, as well as major jazz festivals throughout the U.S. and Russia.
A frequent performer at the Jazz-Philharmonic Hall in St. Petersburg, Ilya Rushtak is also a dedicated jazz preservationist, running his own record label – Lineage -to bring classic styles to new audiences.
This special collaboration promises an evening of electrifying musicianship, deep grooves, and inspired creativity. Together, the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble and Ilya Rushtak will bridge geographic boundaries using the enduring language of jazz. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience a truly international sound rooted right here in Philadelphia.
