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The New Philly Sound Is Here — Powered by the Next Generation

A new ensemble of rising jazz artists with deep Philadelphia roots is making its debut. The New Philly Sound 2025, sponsored by The Heart of Jazz, brings together young musicians who represent both the city’s legacy and its future.

Their debut performance took place Labor Day weekend at Club Patio Jazz Day – Orrin Evans’ jazz festival, where they delivered a jaw-dropping set that left no doubt: the future of jazz in Philadelphia is in powerful, capable hands.

Formed by saxophonist Aidan McKeon at the request of Heart of Jazz board member Joe Monaghan, the ensemble features a handpicked lineup of rising stars — three students from Temple University and two from The Juilliard School. Together, they represent the spirit of The Heart of Jazz: equity, access, and authentic performance rooted in community.

“This band speaks directly to our mission,” said Orrin Evans, who is a grammy nominated jazz pianist and board member, at The Heart of Jazz. “They’re carrying forward the soul of the city — and creating something new.”

Meet the Artists Behind the New Philly Sound

  • Aidan McKeon, saxophone: A Juilliard student and Clef Club alum raised in Philly’s jazz tradition. His phrasing channels the greats — Coltrane, Monk, Dexter Gordon — while carving his own voice into the soundscape.

  • Ace Yuji Williams, trumpet: A composer and performer from Juilliard with a mission to heal through music. His performances span from Carnegie Hall to the Guggenheim.

  • Justin Griggs, piano: A gospel-rooted composer and Temple student with international credits, including performances with the Harlem Ballet and Berklee College of Music.

  • Ry Miller, bass: A Temple student and audio engineer whose playing brings depth, precision, and soul to the rhythm section.

  • Mehki Boone, drums: A high-octane drummer who supplies the heartbeat of the band with infectious energy and groove.

Their fall tour includes four performances across the Philadelphia region — all presented by The Heart of Jazz — giving local audiences a front-row seat to the sound of what’s next.

That ethos is echoed by The Heart of Jazz, which continues to build pathways for underserved youth to discover, perform, and carry forward the jazz tradition.