jazz

"When my parents started me on my musical journey 30 years ago, I had no idea the trip would take me all over the world," says Philly pianist Orrin Evans. He expressed his gratitude to half of his parentage with a recent album dedicated to his father, and now completes the gesture. Suite for Juanita, comprising existing material and pieces composed specifically for the occasion, honors Evans' mother, who had the more direct influence on his musical life. Frances Evans (Juanita is her middle name), now 68 and living in Mt. Airy, is a classical singer whom her son credits with surrounding him since childhood with classical music and jazz. Evans' wide-ranging output, from his hard-bopping groups to the electric groove of Luvpark to his soulful accompaniment for his wife, singer Dawn Warren, proves his indebtedness. "They made it possible for me to explore the great depth, beauty and strength of African-American music and its influence on America."

Sun., Feb. 26, 3 p.m., $15, Settlement Music School, Mary Louise Curtis Branch, 416 Queen St., 215-320-2686, www.smsmusic.org.