Born from the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, Ize Trio is an invigorating multicultural ensemble featuring Chase Morrin (piano), George Lernis (percussion), and Naseem Alatrash (cello). Representing the United States, Cyprus, and Palestine, the trio blends Middle Eastern traditions with modern Jazz to create a sound defined by "revolutionary spirit" (Making a Scene).    Beyond their technical virtuosity, the trio is committed to social activism, having performed at the United Nations and raised significant funds for global humanitarian relief. Their accolades include nominations for Jazz Act of the Year at both the New England and Boston Music Awards, as well as serving as U.S. Arts Envoys. With a repertoire that balances complex composition with "torrents of improvisation" (The Arts Fuse), Ize Trio continues to redefine global diplomacy through the universal language of music. Their latest album, Global Prayer, further explores this intersection of sacred tradition and contemporary innovation.   

New York-born and Boston-bred, emerging saxophonist, composer, and educator Gregory Groover Jr has already left an indelible mark in the jazz world, in a short period. Saxophonist Walter Smith III describes him as a “thematic musician, who's playing very much relates to the song. He plays with a lot of energy, and he leads with that. The heart is the most important thing – the direction and motion of what he plays is where he really feels.” Groover’s artistry seamlessly marries genres as he continues to push the boundaries of jazz while honoring its deep legacy.  Raised with a devotion for music, Groover’s journey in music began at a young age. His passion for jazz flourished as he honed his craft, eventually earning him a full tuition scholarship to pursue his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Performance Studies at Berklee College of Music. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors like Terri Lyne Carrington, John Patitucci, Miguel Zenon, and Dave Liebman, he thrived within the acclaimed Berklee Global Jazz Institute, helmed by the renowned pianist and UNESCO Artist for Peace, Danilo Perez.  Groover’s continued dedication to his craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene. As a bandleader, Groover has released three albums (Negro Spiritual Songbook, Vol 1 & 2) and made his Criss Cross Records debut in April 2024 with his record, Lovabye. On November 7th, Gregory will release his follow up to Lovabye on Criss Cross, Old Knew. In addition to being a bandleader, Groover is a highly sought-after collaborator having performed in music festivals in the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa with some of the world’s leading voices in contemporary music.  As an educator, Gregory has served as the co-chair of music at his alma mater, the Boston Arts Academy, and currently serves as the Assistant Chair of Ensemble & the Interim Managing Director of the Global Jazz Institute, at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music. Through his teaching, he shares his passion for music with the younger generation, inspiring them to explore their creative potential. His dedication to uplifting the next generation of artists underscores his belief in the transformative power of music.