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Mondavi Center Presents

Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band

Thursday, May 8, 2025

7:30pm

Jackson Hall

Julia Keefe turned towards the band

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

  • Season Sponsor The Nancy and Hank Fisher Family Fund

    The Nancy and Hank Fisher Family Fund

  • UCD Global Affairs logo with a yellow and gold circle

    UC Davis Global Affairs

Individual support provided by

Verna M. Fourness-LeMaitre Programming Endowment Fund

members of the campus community pose in front of the Mondavi Center step and repeat banner.

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.

Learn more

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