Grammy-Nominated Artist Laila Biali Brings Joni Mitchell Tribute to Topeka Performing Arts Center Nov. 8

Oct 21

Topeka Jazz welcomes the internationally acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist Laila Biali as part of our 2026 Concert Season.

Grammy-nominated Canadian singer-songwriter and pianist Laila Biali is coming to Topeka Performing Arts Center to perform a heartfelt tribute to the music of her friend and fellow musician, Joni Mitchell. Biali arrives in the capital city fresh off one of the biggest honors in music. Her most recent album, Wintersongs, earned a 2026 Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, placing her alongside acts like Lady Gaga, Barbra Streisand, Elton John, and numerous others.

One of the most influential songwriters of the past century, Joni Mitchell wrote songs like "Both Sides Now," "Big Yellow Taxi" and "River," which have been covered by hundreds of artists over the years. Mitchell also has deep ties to jazz, including collaborations with icons like Charles Mingus and Herbie Hancock. A member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a Kennedy Center Honoree, Mitchell has created a body of work that will be celebrated for generations.

This upcoming concert gives Topeka and surrounding communities an opportunity to experience renowned talent right here at Topeka Performing Arts Center. Laila Biali has headlined festivals across the globe, performing in venues such as New York's Carnegie Hall and Beijing's National Centre for the Performing Arts. In 2019, her self-titled album Laila Biali won a JUNO Award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year.

About Topeka Jazz

Topeka Jazz Workshop, Inc. is the premier jazz organization in the capital city. We produce unforgettable experiences featuring some of the most talented and revered musicians across the country. In addition to concert programming, the organization also supports jazz music by creating scholarships for students who have aspirations to continue their musical endeavors and supporting other music-related programs in our region.