Pureum Jin & The Empress at the DC Jazz Festival

The Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. (KCCDC), in collaboration with the DC Jazz Festival, proudly co-presents Pureum Jin & The Empress. This special performance introduces the distinctive musical voices of Korean and Korean American jazz artists, fostering cultural exchange between Korea and the United States.

The Empress is a New York-based jazz ensemble founded and led by Korean-born saxophonist Pureum Jin. The group features a unique frontline of four female saxophonists: Pureum Jin (alto/soprano), Tessie Overmyer (alto), Chelsea Baratz (tenor), and Lisa Parrott (baritone). Drawing from bebop and jazz standard traditions, The Empress is known for its sophisticated arrangements, tight interplay, and expressive improvisation. Their debut album, Square One, released in 2025, received strong recognition on U.S. jazz radio charts.

For this Washington, D.C. performance, the four saxophonists will be joined by Allyn Johnson (piano), Amy Shook (bass), and Billy Williams (drums), forming a seven-piece ensemble. The 60-minute program will feature jazz standards and selections from Square One, offering a fresh perspective on jazz traditions and highlighting the diversity of today’s New York jazz scene.

This event takes place at Union Stage in The Wharf neighborhood of Washington, D.C., as part of the esteemed DC Jazz Festival's five-day lineup. Tickets are required for entry. Please visit the Korean Cultural Center's website for more details and to purchase tickets.