Matthew Whitaker on Nov 17, 2022 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

“What this prodigy can do better than anything else, and arguably anyone else, is play piano, organ and keyboards.” DownBeat

At 10, Matthew Whitaker opened for Stevie Wonder’s induction into the Apollo Theater Hall of Fame. At 15, he became a Yamaha Artist, the youngest musician to join the stellar group of jazz pianists. Now, the 20-year-old composer and pianist – one of the hottest new names in jazz – makes his Santa Barbara debut following two acclaimed albums and a feature on CBS’ 60 Minutes. “I am a musician, who happens to be blind,” says Whitaker. “I have been blessed with a God-given gift and my prayer is that I can continue to be a blessing and inspiration to others.”

Jazz Series Lead Sponsor: Manitou Fund

Presented in association with UCSB Global Engagement, as part of International Education Week