On Sunday, August 16, 2026, Savannah’s beloved jazz community gathered at District Live in the Plant Riverside District to honor trombonist, arranger, composer, educator and director Teddy Adams on his 85th birthday. The event, organized by the Savannah Jazz All-Star Band, highlighted Adams’ half‑century of contributions to the city’s musical life.
Celebration highlights
The concert opened with a tribute from former Mayor Otis Johnson, who recalled Adams’ upbringing and praised his two recent books, The Up of the Down Beat and Keepin’ the Beat. Johnson’s remarks set a reverent tone for the evening.
Local vocalists Huxsie Scott and Cynthia Utterbach took the stage, delivering soulful jazz standards that underscored the night’s festive atmosphere. The band then performed two original pieces written especially for Johnson and his family: “Dapper Dude,” a tribute to the former mayor, and “Siam Blossoms,” a song honoring Adams’ wife and daughters.
Adams’ musical journey
Teddy Adams first fell in love with the trombone while in elementary school and began playing professionally during his years at A.E. Beach High School. His musicianship was further shaped by service in the U.S. Air Force, where he performed in several military bands stationed across the United States and Asia.
After a posting in Washington, D.C., where he shared the stage with jazz greats Bobby Timmons and Wilbur Ware, Adams spent eleven years abroad, primarily in Tokyo and Bangkok. During that time he collaborated with renowned artists such as Rufus Reid, Blue Mitchell and Art Blakey, expanding his reputation as a versatile and skilled trombonist.
Impact on Savannah’s jazz scene
Alongside fellow musician Ben Tucker, Adams is credited with reviving Savannah’s jazz culture. The duo co‑founded the Coastal Jazz Association, which later became Savannah Jazz, a grassroots nonprofit established in 1981. Their efforts also led to the creation of the Savannah Jazz Festival and the Savannah Jazz Orchestra, institutions that continue to nurture local talent and attract national acts.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Adams’ daughters and granddaughters presented him with a birthday cake, and the audience sang “Happy Birthday” in unison. The evening served not only as a celebration of a personal milestone but also as a reminder of the vital role that community‑driven arts organizations play in preserving cultural heritage.
Looking ahead
Savannah Jazz remains committed to supporting live performances and jazz education throughout the region. The organization’s mission, rooted in volunteerism and local partnership, ensures that future generations will continue to experience the richness of jazz music.
For more information about upcoming concerts, educational programs, or ways to support Savannah’s jazz community, visit the Savannah Jazz website or contact their office directly.
Original reporting: The Savannah Tribune — read the source article.
