Back by popular demand the Stephen Philip Harvey Octet (SPH8) played an unforgettable  jazz concert for Chesapeake Music attendees Saturday evening, July 20th at the Ebenezer Theatre. The SPH8 is a collective with a rotating roster of dynamic musicians showcasing their remarkable musicianship and playing the original compositions and arrangements of Stephen Philip Harvey.  The concert drew a full house of jazz fans who enjoyed selections featuring an innovative fusion of jazz with pop, funk, hip hop, and rock from Harvey’s recent two albums “Elemental” and his latest album “Live at Radio Artifact,” featuring original compositions and arrangements recorded live in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Band leader Harvey spoke to the audience about events in his life that inspired the compositions. An Eastern Shore resident, Mr. Harvey, is currently choir director at Wicomico High School and a clarinet and saxophone instructor at Salisbury University. He has been playing jazz professionally since 2017.  

The concert was introduced by Barry Koh, the President of Chesapeake Music.  Mr. Koh introduced Chesapeake Music’s new Executive Director, David Faleris, who began his tenure on July 1.  In his brief remarks, Mr. Faleris thanked the Maryland State Arts Council which contributed to $5,000 to assist in sponsoring the event.