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Experience the world-renowned pianist as Alexander fuses Jamaican rhythms with the spirit of jazz
The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center is delighted to present Monty Alexander – Jamaica to Jazz on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 8 p.m. Soak up the sounds of a true jazz legend as the pianist and composer takes the audience on a musical journey, blending the rhythms of his Jamaican roots with the timeless sophistication of American jazz. Tickets are available at www.mosscenter.org.
Celebrated for his joyful energy and masterful technique, Alexander has captivated audiences around the world for more than six decades. His distinctive sound draws deeply from both jazz and Caribbean traditions, mixing soul, swing, and island rhythm into a signature style that transcends genres.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander began playing piano at an early age and quickly emerged as a pioneer of Jamaican popular music. As a teenager in the late 1950s, he performed in the island’s first recording studios and participated in sessions that helped lay the foundation for ska, a musical movement that would later give rise to reggae in the 1960s and ‘70s.
Driven by exceptional talent and a passion for music, Alexander immigrated to the United States, where he performed alongside some of the most celebrated figures in jazz history, including Duke Ellington, Ray Brown, Milt Jackson, Wes Montgomery, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, and Sonny Rollins. These formative experiences helped shape Alexander’s musical identity and inspired a lifelong dedication to his craft.
Today, Monty Alexander remains one of the world’s most beloved and influential pianists, known for dynamic performances that radiate joy and authenticity.
To support those impacted by Hurricane Melissa, performance hosts will collect monetary donations at the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) table, as well as canned and hygiene items at the Moss Center table at the performance venue. More information can be found here.
As part of ongoing relief efforts, Moss Center staff will volunteer at the GEM headquarters in Doral on February 5.
Reinforcing a shared commitment to Hurricane Melissa relief, the performance is presented in partnership with GEM, Caribbean Strong, and the Jamaica Tourist Board. The event is also expected to welcome dignitaries, including Consul General Oliver Mair of Jamaica and Philip Rose of the Jamaica Tourist Board, who will deliver welcoming remarks.
Jamaica to Jazz is recommended for ages 13 and above. Ticket prices range from $35 to $65 and $80 for VIP. VIP ticketholders are invited to a pre-performance reception with the Jamaica Tourist Board at 6:30 p.m. in the Lab Theater.
Tickets may be purchased by visiting MossCenter.org, through the Moss Center Box Office in person, or by calling (786) 573-5300.
