Patrice Rushen with Richard Elliot and Walter Beasley

Patrice Rushen, a Grammy-nominated pianist and composer from Los Angeles, is renowned for her jazz, pop, and R&B fusion, with hits like "Forget Me Nots." She's collaborated with legends like Stevie Wonder and Prince and served as the first female musical director for award shows like the Grammys. A Berklee Ambassador, she promotes music education and mentorship.

Richard Elliot, a Los Angeles-based saxophonist born in Scotland, is a key figure in urban contemporary jazz, with a style blending soul, funk, and smooth jazz. Formerly with Tower of Power, Elliot charted hits with Blue Note like "On the Town" and "Jumpin' Off." His work, including with Rick Braun on "RnR," frequently tops jazz charts. Notable collaborations include Dave Koz, the Yellowjackets, and covers like Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues." Elliot co-founded ARTizen Music Group, released "Metro Blue," and continues to shape jazz with releases such as 2021's "Authentic Life."

Walter Beasley, an award-winning saxophonist, singer, and composer, hails from the U.S. and led Los Elegantes at 13. He served 35 years at Berklee and founded Affable Records. Notably, a top-selling African American saxophonist since 1998, he won Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year (2019) and Soul Tracks’ Instrumentalist award (2023). Known for hits like “Nice and Easy” with Najee, he inspires through music and teaching.