Why does Thelonious Monk play the piano like that? Why is John Coltrane’s music so intense? Why is Billie Holiday’s voice so unique? These questions, and the deeper stories they unveil, are at the heart of the Jazz Legacy Project—a revolutionary experience born from an epiphany by bandleader Justin Varnes in 2015 while teaching Jazz History at Georgia State University.

The Vision
The Jazz Legacy Project began as an innovative teaching method. Varnes ditched traditional textbooks in favor of records and storytelling, discovering that blending music with narratives captivated his students. This magic grew even more compelling when the band began live performances, interpreting the music of jazz legends while intertwining their stories with the historical moments that shaped them.

This approach transforms jazz appreciation into a vivid exploration of American history, showing how cultural and societal shifts influenced the art form. The project doesn’t just play music; it brings it to life, connecting audiences with the humanity behind the notes.

The Band
The Jazz Legacy Project features a stellar lineup:

Justin Varnes – Drums and Narration
Noel Freidline – Piano and Keyboard
John Sandfort – Tenor Saxophone
Kevin Smith – Acoustic Bass

In January 2025, Middle C Jazz presents The Jazz Legacy Project with a series of unforgettable performances that weave music, history, and storytelling.

Tickets Available Now
Join The Jazz Legacy Project for an unparalleled experience that illuminates the stories behind the legends and the history that shaped their music. This is jazz as you’ve never heard it before—alive, contextual, and deeply moving.

January 12: Miles Davis
A pioneering trumpeter who shaped the course of jazz from the 1940s to the 1980s, Miles Davis led multiple jazz revolutions and defined “classic jazz” in the 1950s and 60s. The Jazz Legacy Project will explore Davis’s remarkable journey and perform his most iconic hits.

June 1: Herbie Hancock
From child prodigy to jazz legend, Herbie Hancock’s career spans classic Blue Note records, groundbreaking funk, and collaborations with hip-hop artists. His music embodies jazz, blues, and funk, showcasing an enduring legacy of innovation.

September 14: Ella Fitzgerald, ft. Maria Howel

A random drawing to sing at the Apollo theater as a teenager launched Ella’s career, a ride that took her from dance bands, to Songbook albums, to worldwide stardom as “the Memorex Lady.” This show includes her hits such as “A Tisket, A Tasket,” “Mack the Knife,” and “Summertime,” and features vocalist Maria Howell.

November 9: Sarah Vaughan, ft Maria Howell
The Divine One, as she was known, Vaughan used her bebop chops to add sophistication and style to such big hits as “Misty,” “Body & Soul,” and “Whatever Lola Wants.” Her unique style is expertly brought to life by Charlotte’s own divine jazz vocalist: Maria Howell.

Special invitation directly from Justin.