Grammy-winning multi-instrumentalist, composer and conductor Derrick Hodge will lead a masterclass at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) on Friday, Jan. 24, at 2 p.m. in the B.N. Duke Complex Jazz Band Room (1851 Fayetteville Street). The university and Durham communities are invited to hear from Hodge, who will share his career experience and insights in the music field.
Hodge is a musical force—having played on some of the most iconic albums and collaborated with industry legends like Jill Scott, Nas, Maxwell and Common. In addition to his two Grammy Awards, Hodge has conducted musical arrangements for high-profile events like the National Juneteenth Celebration at the Hollywood Bowl, the 94th Academy Awards. His influence stretches across genres, from hip-hop to jazz, and even symphonic compositions for the National Symphony and the Kennedy Center.
His dedication to the arts and advocacy for young, emerging musicians shines through his projects, like “The Color of Noize,” which creates space for innovation and community among both established and up-and-coming musicians.
The event is being hosted by the NCCU jazz studies program. For more information, contact Thomas Taylor, assistant professor of jazz and percussion, at [email protected].