Mondavi Center Presents
Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band
Thursday, May 8, 2025
7:30pm
Jackson Hall

Continuing a little-known but rich history of big bands that formed on reservations during the early 20th century, the Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band brings charisma, passion, and purpose to every stage.
This ensemble features a “who’s who” of Native and Indigenous jazz musicians and bandleaders, including Mali Obomsawin (Odanak Abenaki), Delbert Anderson (Diné) and Chantil Dukart (Tsimshian), led by celebrated vocalist and luminary Julia Keefe (Nez Perce). Performing pieces from their under-appreciated predecessors in jazz like Mildred Bailey (Coeur d’Alene) and Jim Pepper (Kaw/Mvskoke), alongside works by contemporary Indigenous composers, the band spotlights a vibrant, long-standing tradition of Indigenous improvised music.
Sponsored by
-
The Nancy and Hank Fisher Family Fund
-
UC Davis Global Affairs
Individual support provided by
Verna M. Fourness-LeMaitre Programming Endowment Fund

Inspiration through the Arts Meetup
Elevating the vibrant diversity of the arts, Mondavi Center and UC Davis Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion present “Meetups” for select events in the 2024-25 season. These informal gatherings are all about building connections and celebrating shared experiences, fostering a sense of community through the beauty of the arts.

Plan Your Visit
Know before you go, directions and parking, ticket office information and accessibility.

Subscribe & Save
Become a subscriber and save up to 15% when you purchase 3 or more events.

UC Davis Discounts
UC Davis students, faculty, and staff get special discounts and savings on tickets.
You May Also Like…

Ledisi Sings Dinah Washington
Sun, Oct 5, 2025

Raiatea Helm
Wed, Oct 15, 2025

Allison Miller's Boom Tic Boom
Thu, Oct 16 – Sat, Oct 18, 2025