MARQUETTE, Mich.— Grammy-nominated jazz violinist Regina Carter will perform at two Northern Michigan University events: the NMU Jazz Festival closing concert on Friday, April 11, with the NMU Jazz Band; and the Northern Nights performing arts series on Saturday, April 12, with her ensemble, Southern Comfort.

Carter is considered the foremost jazz violinist of her generation. She was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship in 2006 for her originality and dedication. This is apparent in her recent debut album, “Southern Comfort,” which explores Southern folk music and coincides with an international tour.

On the eve of the 18th annual NMU Jazz Festival, there will be a Faculty and Friends Jazz Combo performance at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 10, in Reynolds Recital Hall. Admission is free. The festival takes place the next day, with several regional high school and middle school jazz ensembles performing and participating in workshops. The closing concert, featuring Carter and the NMU Jazz Band, takes place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 11, in Kaufman Auditorium Tickets are $6 with an NMU ID, $8 for students and $11 for the public.  

Carter will perform with her ensemble, Southern Comfort, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 12, in Kaufman Auditorium for the Northern Nights performing arts series. Tickets are: students, $5 in advance/$6 at the door;  NMU employees/60+, $13/$15; general public, $18/$20. Tickets may be purchased through any NMU EZ Ticket vendor.

Carter’s appearance is funded in part by a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. While in Marquette, she will conduct string workshops for Marquette Area Public Schools students and clinics during the NMU Jazz Festival.