For the past twenty-five years with five albums as a leader, several studio projects as a side man, and countless worldwide performances, saxophonist, vocalist and composer Juli Wood has established herself as a solid, swinging, lyrical and entertaining performer on Chicago’s music scene. Juli has played many jazz clubs and festivals nationally and internationally; Chicago Jazz Fest, Hyde Park Jazz Fest, Milwaukee’s Summerfest, Chicago’s main jazz clubs – Jazz Showcase, Green Mill, Andy’s and Katerina’s. Skansen Jazz and Blues (Stockholm , Sweden), Pori Jazz Fest (Finland), Bent J’s club (Aarhus, Denmark), Storyville (Helsinki Finland), Arlandia Jazz Fest (Aaland Islands, Finland) and the ” Made in Chicago ” jazz festival in Poznan Poland to name a few. Juli is in the tradition of saxophonists who were also great vocalists; Cleanhead Vincent, Eddie Harris, and Louis Jordan.

Latest Videos

Natalies Wood – The Inflated Tear

Natalies Wood – The Inflated Tear

Natalies Wood Plays Roland Kirk,is an ensemble that re-examines the oft-explosive music of saxophone giant Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Kirk, a blind musician who died in 1977 at age 41, commanded a monumental technique in a wide range of jazz idioms, though he’s probably most famous for having played three horns at once.

Natalies Wood – Bright Moments

Natalies Wood – Bright Moments

Natalies Wood Plays Roland Kirk,is an ensemble that re-examines the oft-explosive music of saxophone giant Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Kirk, a blind musician who died in 1977 at age 41, commanded a monumental technique in a wide range of jazz idioms, though he’s probably most famous for having played three horns at once.

Reviews

Movin’ and Groovin’ Review

Movin’ and Groovin’ Review

One of the pleasures of attending the Chicago Jazz Festival over Labor Day weekend each year is being able to hear the bevy of local players who make up the Windy City jazz scene. Last year’s treat was Juli Wood, a gutsy tenor and baritone saxophonist who also sings with the earthy gusto of an r&b diva filtered through a hard bop sensibility.

Chan Parker, Charlie Parker’s widow

Chan Parker, Charlie Parker’s widow

” The band was great and you amazed me, especially on alto. But you know I’m E-flat. I hope to see you soon again.”
– Chan Parker, Charlie Parker’s widow

Upcoming shows

  • 05/07/25 Juli Wood Trio in Evanston, IL at Prairie Moon
  • 05/10/25 Juli Wood , Robin Pluer and Anthony Deutsch in Milwaukee, WI at Bar Centro
  • 05/17/25 MRS FUN plus one in West Allis, WI at Kegels Inn
  • 06/06/25 Cerqua / Rivera Dance Theater in Chicago, IL at Ruth Page Dance Center Buy Tickets
  • 06/07/25 Cerqua / Rivera Dance Theater in Chicago, IL at Ruth Page Dance Center