Poolside Performances are an exploration of experimental music, movement, and mark-making. Join us for a summer evening with Allen Dennard Trio.

Allen Dennard is a trumpeter, composer, recording artist, bandleader, and activist who was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. At the age of 9, Allen joined his elementary school’s band at John Trix Elementary. From then on, he never put the trumpet down. Following his passion for instrumental music, he received a Bachelor’s of Jazz Studies from the University of Michigan.

Dennard has released three recorded projects as a band leader in his musical career thus far. He released his debut project, “Stepping In,” in 2018, his debut album, “Flashback,” in 2022, and his latest release, “Black Valley,” in 2025. Dennard has been nominated for the Detroit Music Awards and has released music with the record label Motor City Wine.

Dennard has made five appearances as a sideman in the Detroit Jazz Festival: Wendell Harrison (2015), Detroit bassist Ali Bey (2017), the Detroit Jazz Festival All-Star Alumni Band (2019), David McMurray (2020), and the Keyon Harold Big Band (2021). In 2022 and 2025, Dennard was a headliner at the Detroit Jazz Festival, showcasing his groups “The Allen Dennard Quintet” and “Allen Dennard Quartet.” All groups have been headliners in venues in Detroit and across the Midwest, including Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, Cliff Bell’s, and The Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe.

In 2025, Allen Dennard Trio was selected as an ambassador for Detroit, touring Japan with the “Detroit Jazz Festival Generations All-Star Group.” Dennard’s music mixes jazz, contemporary, house, hip-hop, and funk. He resides in Detroit; focused on developing his musical career in the local, national, and international music scene.

Poolside Performances occur rain or shine and are free and open to the public with RSVP. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.