Biographies

Charles W. Lowery II is the Executive Director for the New Mexico Jazz Workshop.  Previously, he was the Domestic Violence Project Coordinator at Legal FACS (Forms And Courthouse Services) from November 2003 to October 2006, and was the, and Executive Director of Haven House [Domestic Violence Shelter in Rio Rancho] from October 2000 to July 2003. Charles holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Vocational Education Studies from Southern Illinois University; a Master’s of Arts Degree in Human Resources Development and Management, and a Master’s of Arts Degree in Business, both from Webster University. 
 
Charles has a deep, passion for jazz music going back as a youth growing up in Washington, DC listening to jazz DJ, the late Felix Grant on WMAL.FM Radio.  Charles grew up playing the violin and clarinet in school bands. He is an avid gardener, and enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and cooking.  His plans include building a new house near the Bosque to accommodate his extensive jazz record  and cd collection, his growing wine collection and horses for riding.


Lisa Nichols - the Volunteer and Production Coordinator for the New Mexico Jazz Workshop - is from Edmond, Oklahoma. She attended The University of Central Oklahoma where she earned a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Music Education. She moved to Albuquerque ten years ago with her Husband Lonnie Brown and their Daughter Claire. In the past she has volunteered with the Jazz Workshop alongside her sister Cris Nichols. Lisa plays flute in the Celtic group “Saoirse” and the “Albuquerque Concert Band”. She also plays alto saxophone with the “Four Sisters Sax Quartet”.

Concepcion Lopez-Cherry, Administrative & Marketing Assistant, came to the Jazz Workshop from the world of illustration and design. She had her own graphic design business here in Albuquerque for many years, after graduating Magna Cum Laude from New Mexico Highlands University, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Communication Arts. Previously, she worked in advertising at KHFM, classical radio, and at KNME, public television.

She is the mother of two very creative children, Gabriel (musician) and Cristina (artist), and has been with her husband, architect Ned Cherry, for 30 years. Her hobbies include classical piano, greeting card design, and gardening, and she also enjoys traveling when given the opportunity. Both she and her husband are long time jazz enthusiasts, and Concepcion is committed to helping make the Jazz Workshop more accessible to Albuquerque's diverse cultural community.











The New Mexico Jazz Workshop relies on donor contributions to help us continue providing quality programs. We invite you to join us in our efforts by becoming a sponsor, member, volunteer, or board member and contribute what you can. Please feel free to contact us for more information.