News Summary
At just 18 years old, Birmingham’s Caleb ‘Twizz’ Heath took center stage during a jazz jam session at the historic Carver Theatre. Supported by local institutions, this rising star showcased his skills by performing classic bebop standards, highlighting the importance of mentorship and community support in nurturing young talent in Birmingham’s vibrant jazz scene.
Birmingham Teen Drummer Caleb “Twizz” Heath Shines in Local Jazz Jam Session
Birmingham recently witnessed a remarkable musical event as local teenager Caleb “Twizz” Heath performed at a jam session held at the historic Carver Theatre. The session, organized collaboratively by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, and the Birmingham City Council, took place in late February and showcased an all-star lineup of jazz musicians.
Youth in Jazz: A Rising Star
At just 18 years old, Heath was invited to perform alongside established jazz figures, following an invitation from José Carr, a revered member of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. His selection is indicative of the ongoing support for young musicians in Birmingham’s jazz scene. During the session, Heath demonstrated his skills by performing the bebop standard “Billie’s Bounce” and the Miles Davis classic “Four.”
Heath’s journey into music began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he received a drum set from his mother. Since then, he has made a name for himself in local venues such as the Uptown Jazz Lounge and True Story Brewing Company. Known by his stage name “Twizz,” Heath has quickly gained recognition amongst jazz aficionados for his eclectic drumming style, which draws from a variety of musical genres and influences.
A Supportive Network
Central to Heath’s development as a musician is his brother, Cornelius Heath, a multi-instrumentalist who has mentored him and provided guidance throughout his musical career. This familial connection underscores the importance of mentorship in developing young talents in Birmingham’s music community.
Heath is also a member of the Tri-City Jazz Conglomerate, a jazz group he helped establish in November 2024. The ensemble aims to provide a platform for community musicians, particularly high school and collegiate players, reflecting a commitment to nurturing emerging talent in the local jazz scene. Their recent performance alongside the Birmingham Boys Choir at The Club Birmingham highlights the Conglomerate’s dedication to collaboration and community engagement in the arts.
Future Aspirations and Educational Commitments
Looking ahead, Heath plans to major in jazz performance and minor in business at Jacksonville State University, where he has secured a scholarship. His rigorous practice schedule and dedication to both school bands and solo practice illustrate his serious approach to developing his craft. Heath has expressed aspirations to tour, teach, and even perform at large venues such as the Super Bowl.
Cultural and Educational Implications
Heath’s artistic journey is set against the backdrop of Birmingham’s evolving cultural landscape, where local policies promoting arts education and community engagement are vital. The collaboration between local institutions such as the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and the Birmingham City Council provides crucial support for young musicians like Heath, enhancing both their visibility and opportunities within the community.
As Birmingham continues to prioritize nurturing young talent through initiatives in music and the arts, the experiences and successes of emerging artists like Caleb “Twizz” Heath serve to reinforce the value of community-focused programs that inspire and uplift the next generation of musicians.
With a strong foundation in both jazz and Christian values, over time, Heath aims to give back to his own community by supporting local church initiatives through music, highlighting the reciprocal nature of artistic growth and community responsibility.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Honors Jazz Icon Sun Ra with Festival
Birmingham to Host Vibrant Events from April 24 to April 30, 2025
Birmingham, Alabama Hosts Dave Matthews Band for Amphitheater Opening
Birmingham Spring Festivals Kick Off with Community Flavor
Forrest Frank to Perform at Birmingham’s Legacy Arena
Birmingham to Host ‘ShinDigital’ Music Festival After Sloss Tech
Birmingham Urges Early Registration for Upcoming School Year
Alabama House Approves $3.7 Billion Budget for 2026
Birmingham Hosts Weekend Events for Community Engagement
Birmingham’s Musical Legacy: Preserving History and Shaping Futures
Additional Resources
- Birmingham Times: Caleb “Twizz” Heath shines in local jazz jam session
- CBS42: Birmingham Public Library to host jazz concert April 30
- Bham Now: Jazz on 4th with Birmingham Heritage Band
- WVTM13: Herbie Hancock Jazz Program in Birmingham
- Wikipedia: Jazz
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
