Harmony and Blessings Music Series Continues in 2026
The art of jazz with Jair-Rohm Parker Wells and Ethnic Heritage Ensemble
BEGINNING MONDAY, FEB. 16
City Gallery is known as a hub for local art and music, where on any given night while viewing artist-created works you may also happen to catch an impromptu practice from local musicians getting ready for an upcoming performance. The gallery is owned and operated by musician Stephen Trohoske and artist Lena Logvina, who have always kept their business flowing with creative energy and beautiful sounds. Along with hosting some of the region's most talented musicians, nationally touring jazz musicians often grace their space as part of the Harmony and Blessings Music Series.
Kicking off the 2026 season is New York City bassist Jair-Rohm Parker Wells on Monday, Feb. 16. He will be performing a solo bass performance entitled Resonance, which explores the legacy of German double bassist and composer Eberhard Weber, known for his distinctive tone and phrasing, blending chamber music with jazz, classical, minimalism, and ambient music.
The improvisational playing of Parker Wells combined with his use of modern looping and processing technologies pairs well with Eberhard Weber's bass driven soundscapes, giving listeners a unique blend of jazz, experimental, and electro-acoustic music. Trohoske, also a bass player, spoke on his excitement for having Parker Wells perform at the gallery: "With the work of Weber in the '70s, when he was experimenting with triggers and symphonic compositions all being set from one instrument, it was really groundbreaking and I suspect that Jair-Rohm will be truly amazing with what he will bring to this performance."
Additionally and in continuing celebration of Black History Month, the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, which was founded by percussionist Kahil El' Zabar at Lake Forest College in Illinois in 1973 will be performing on Sunday, Feb. 22. For the past 11 years, Ethnic Heritage Ensemble have been making a stop in Erie, with the help of Logvina and Trohoske. This event expects to draw a larger crowd and is therefore being held at the Cathedral of St. Paul. The music and performance of Ethnic Heritage Ensemble combines Black American music styles including jazz, blues, R&B, funk, and gospel, woven with African folk and dance traditions.
Following these two performances, the Harmony and Blessings series will continue throughout the year. Upcoming guests will include Lucian Ban and Alex Harding Duo, The Messthetics with James Brandon Lewis (which features the rhythm section from DC punk band Fugazi), and American flautist Jamie Baum with her dectet.
Trohoske weighed in on why he feels that it's so important, at this moment, to give your time to live music: "So many artists are up against the internet, AI, fewer venues, greater expenses, and lower payouts. I think it's important to physically be there, not only to keep the events happening, but for the much needed energy exchange and spiritual lift that these events bring." – Larry Wheaton
Jair-Rohm Parker Wells on Monday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. // City Gallery, 1503 State St. // Donations accepted // For more info: facebook.com/citygalleryerie
Ethnic Heritage Ensemble on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 4 p.m. // Cathedral of St. Paul, 134 W. 7th St. // Donations accepted // For more info: facebook.com/citygalleryerie
For more Harmony and Blessings events throughout the year, visit tickets.eriereader.com
