Chris Botti at STNJ Grammy®-winning trumpeter Chris Botti has been one of the most popular instrumentalists in the world for nearly three decades; he’s collaborated with some of the biggest superstars on the planet, including Sting, Paul Simon, Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, Bette Midler, Joni Mitchell, Steven Tyler, Andrea Bocelli, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, and others. He has topped the jazz charts with numerous albums, earned multiple Gold and Platinum records, and performed with symphony orchestras and on prestigious stages from Carnegie Hall to the Hollywood Bowl to the Sydney Opera House. In short, Chris Botti really needs no introduction. Yet with his Blue Note Records debut, he’s offering one anyway. Vol.1 is in many ways a fresh start for the trumpeter. Having successfully crossed over from jazz renown to pop stardom, Botti’s first album in more than a decade finds him crossing back, with a small group project focused on acoustic jazz and classic standards. “I turned 60 in 2022, at a time that seemed like a restart for so many things in the world,” Botti says. “I wanted to strip away all the orchestral arrangements and special guests and focus more on

Angela Pilgrim & Barbara Wallace Solo Exhibitions at The Center for Contemporary Art The Center for Contemporary Art is pleased to present two fall solo exhibitions on view September 27 through December 8. Angela Pilgrim: New Growth presents the work of Angela Pilgrim whose studio is in Newark, New Jersey. She explains, “My work explores the Black female gaze through figurative imagery of the body. Utilizing portraiture, printmaking, pattern making and mixed media.” Barbara Wallace: Sculpture showcases the work of sculptor Barbara Wallace, who resides in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Wallace is a sculptor known for her figurative art works and innovative use of recycled materials. When discussing her work, she explains, “Shape, form and structure are essential aspects of my sculptures created with a paper mache technique in recycled paper, cardboard, wire, metal and acrylic paint…. Using up-cycled resources addresses my concerns about climate change and the environment.”

The Art of Recovery: Connecting Through Transformative Creativity In observance of September as National Recovery Month The Center in partnership with Community in Connection is pleased to present “The Art of Recovery.” “The Art of Recovery” showcases the transformative power of creativity in personal recovery. This exhibition highlights artistic expression as a vital healing tool, helping individuals process emotions, share their journeys, and reconnect with themselves and their communities. Through painting, sculpture, photography and more, participants find strength, resilience, and hope. “The Art of Recovery” celebrates how creativity fosters personal growth, reduces stigma, and unites communities.