Sacramento Jazz Hero
Far more than an ace accompanist and educator of thousands of musicians, Joe Gilman is a force that has changed the face of jazz in Sacramento. He’s taught at American River College and Sacramento State University and the Brubeck Institute in Stockton. He formed and directed the Capital Jazz Project. He toured the world as part of the Kennedy Center/USIA Jazz Ambassador program, and he was the grand prize winner of the 2004 Great American Jazz Piano Competition in Jacksonville, Florida.
Gilman has also toured and recorded with a bevy of jazz legends, but it’s not his bandstand prowess that makes him a Jazz Hero. Rather, it’s his recent venture as a jazz entrepreneur. As California emerged from pandemic lockdowns, hundreds of artists struggled to restart their careers. Music lovers stepped out tentatively for public performances. Gilman’s acquisition of a humble Thai restaurant – and his addition of music to its menus – brought a much-needed boost for scores of performers and jazz supporters.
Twin Lotus Thai quickly morphed from minor eatery into major arts venue. In four years the restaurant has become one of Sacramento’s most important music spots. The region’s top artists now wait in line for performance slots. A draw in his own right, Doctor Joe is also at hand to augment visiting ensembles with his own playing. An educator at heart, he offers opportunities for rising performers (even children and high school ensembles) to hone their talents.
Young artists learn the facts of professional life through Twin Lotus gigs. Every show must be strictly timed to comply with house turnover between dinner sets. And performers must build relationships with audiences and take responsibility for promotion. Joe’s spreadsheet system allows artists to monitor audience reservations and promote accordingly.
Payment is competitive with local venues. The restaurant’s “artist support box” channels customer tips back to musicians. Joe’s encouragement of talent bodes well for the future of jazz. His educational events, including historical perspectives on jazz genres, consistently pack the house. Original music is a big part of the repertoire. The artists represent diverse styles and cultures. Latin, reggae, funk, and classical music augment American songbook standards. Developing vocalists appreciate the experience of singing with some of California’s finest rhythm players, including Doctor Joe himself. For all of these contributions, he’s a Jazz Hero for his tireless promotion and support of music in its myriad forms.
—Susan Skinner
