Summer Tuesdays come alive on the MCA terrace with free concerts highlighting artists from Chicago’s internationally renowned music community. Enjoy live music while relaxing on the lawn with your own picnic, or savor snacks and drinks available for purchase. Then head inside to catch the MCA’s summer exhibitions—we’re open late on Tuesdays and free for Illinois residents.

Justin Dillard is no stranger to the Terrace having performed numerously with different bands, but this year makes his Terrace debut as band leader. Together with his band, The Aggregation, Dillard plays legendary tunes with original arrangements, creating a new experience for those who love the classics with a new sensibility.

About the Artist

Born and raised on the west side of Chicago in a close-knit community, Justin Dillard attended both Vandercook College of Music and The Velvet Lounge as institutions of higher aptitude. He has performed/recorded with and/or received tutelage from the likes of Branford Marsalis, Ornette Coleman, Dionne Warwick, Fred Anderson, NEA jazz master Von Freeman, and Roscoe Mitchell to name a few. Howard Reich (Chicago Tribune) writes: “A new generation of jazz improvisers has emerged in Chicago in recent years, but few are more promising than organist/pianist Justin Dillard. Musically, Dillard tends to be all over the keyboard, drawing upon the examples of virtuosos such as Dr. Lonnie Smith, and McCoy Tyner. But there’s something more to Dillard’s work as well; a quest for new ideas in music, in the historic practice of his AACM mentors.” Justin has been a Hammond Organ Endorsed Artist for 15 years and has received four grammy nominations (two in 2023, with Sir Kahil El’ Zabar and the legendary Bobby Broom). He has performed on national television (ABC) with his organ trio The DOT, and continues to transform his career by composing for and performing with his vast array of ensembles; all while accompanying great musicians all over the world.