Jazz Notes with Ellen Williams Carter

On Thursday, I will be interviewing Kenny Rittenhouse, a talented trumpeter, educator, composer, and arranger, alongside Allyn Johnson, an accomplished pianist, composer, arranger, and producer. Both artists bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to their work, leading orchestras and small ensembles while educating others in the art of music. Rittenhouse has made significant contributions through his compositions and arrangements for the US Army Blues Jazz Ensemble, the US Army Band Jazz Orchestra, and the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, where he currently performs. He also serves as co-director of the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Youth Orchestra. Allyn Johnson studied music at the University of the District of Columbia under the legendary jazz musician Calvin Jones, earning the Felix E. Grant Scholarship during his studies. After serving six years as an adjunct professor and assistant director of UDC's Jazz Studies program, he became the director in 2005, following Jones' passing. Johnson was also a participant in Betty Carter's Jazz Ahead program and returned the next year to serve as an instructor. On December 3, 2024, He will perform with the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Youth Orchestra and present a set with his own trio.