JodyJazz Inc., the world-renowned manufacturer of saxophone and clarinet mouthpieces, celebrated its 25th Anniversary in spectacular fashion with a special performance by Kirk Whalum at the 44th Annual Savannah Jazz Festival, held September 19–20 in historic Forsyth Park.
The 2025 edition of the festival featured an impressive lineup of world-class artists including Jocelyn Gould, Tony Monaco, Anat Cohen, and Spyro Gyra. The highlight of the second evening was a headlining performance by Grammy Award winner and multiple Grammy-nominated saxophonist Kirk Whalum, a JodyJazz Endorser Artist celebrated internationally for his soulful sound and dynamic stage presence.
Just before Whalum took the stage, Jody Espina, Founder and President of JodyJazz, was honored with a proclamation from the Mayor of Savannah, presented by the festival’s Executive Director. The proclamation recognized JodyJazz’s 25th Anniversary and Espina’s ongoing contributions to the Savannah community and to the art of Jazz.
Whalum’s performance electrified the packed park. With his superb band, he delivered a powerful set blending classic soul, pop/R&B, smooth jazz, and funky grooves that had the audience captivated from start to finish. At the start of his set, Whalum invited Jody Espina on stage for a special rendition of Grover Washington Jr.’s classic ‘Mister Magic’. With Espina on Alto and Whalum on Tenor, the two paid fitting tribute to the legendary sax master who was taken from us far too soon.
The celebration continued with Whalum showcasing tracks from his new recording,
‘Epic Cool’. In one of the evening’s most memorable moments, he left the stage with his wireless mic during an extended saxophone solo, wandering through the massive crowd and delighting fans with his unmistakable sound up close.
By every measure, the 25th anniversary celebration was a milestone event for both JodyJazz and the Savannah Jazz Festival, underscoring the deep ties between the company, the city, and the jazz community worldwide.
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