'Thank You October': UB spending evening with Esperanza Spalding

The Center for the Arts, University at Buffalo, hosts "An Evening with Esperanza Spalding - Thank You October" Thursday, Oct. 9, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now.

Bassist/vocalist/composer Spalding was one of the biggest breakout stars of 2011, garnering Best New Artist at the 53rd Grammy Awards. This was unprecedented by a jazz musician, and Spalding continues to make the unprecedented her norm.

Her journey as a solo artist began with the 2006 release of "Junjo." In 2008, her international debut recording, "Esperanza," quickly topped Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart and became the year's bestselling jazz album worldwide. Numerous awards and appearances followed, including an invitation by President Obama to appear at both the White House and the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony, a performance at the 84th Academy Awards, and an appearance on the "Late Show with David Letterman" (Letterman and bandleader Paul Shaffer proclaimed the young musician as the "coolest" guest in the program's three-decade history). Her 2010 release, "Chamber Music Society," was another instant chart-topper and award-winner. In 2012, she released "Radio Music Society." Her U.S. tour to support the album began at the UBCFA.

To celebrate her birthday month, Esperanza returns during a special two-week tour. Joined by long-time collaborators Leo Genovese and Lyndon Rochelle, this intimate trio performance will include selections from her critically acclaimed releases.

Tickets are available at the Center for the Arts Box Office (weekdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,) and via tickets.com. To charge tickets, call 1-888-223-6000. For more information, call 716-645-2787 or visit www.ubcfa.org or www.esperanzaspalding.com.

Esperanza Spalding photo by Sandrine Lee