Meg Okura is a violinist, composer, and bandleader known for combining jazz improvisation with classical, Japanese, and contemporary musical influences. Originally from Japan and based in New York City, Okura has performed and recorded with artists including Michael Brecker, Lee Konitz, David Bowie, and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, while also leading her own ensembles and compositional projects.

Featured with the quintet is soprano saxophonist Sam Newsome, widely recognized for his distinctive solo saxophone work and innovative approach to improvisation. Over the course of his career, Newsome has performed with artists including Terence Blanchard, Jack DeJohnette, and Andrew Hill, and has become known for expanding the sonic possibilities of the soprano saxophone.

Together, the quintet presents a program of original compositions and improvisation blending modern jazz, chamber music textures, and exploratory ensemble interplay through a highly expressive and contemporary group sound.

This concert will be recorded for future broadcast on WLIW-FM