Our vision is to be a catalyst for positive change, opening minds with inspiring ideas.

x= independently organized TED event

What is TEDx? In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is called TEDxJacksonville, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDxJacksonville event, TED Talks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.

This independent TEDx event is operated under license from TED. | web design by Christopher RInehart
Christopher Shawn

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Christopher Shawn

Christopher Shawn doesn’t just play the piano; he tells stories with 88 keys. A lifelong musician with over 40 years of experience, Christopher has evolved from a blues-obsessed teenager into a master of soul-jazz improvisation. His sound is a rich tapestry of gospel-influenced harmony, Southern storytelling, and deep emotional honesty. Known for creating powerful “shared spaces” where the line between artist and audience dissolves, Christopher uses improvisation to walk the musical edge—proving that the most beautiful moments are often the ones that are unplanned.
Christopher ShawnChristopher Shawn doesn't just play the piano; he tells stories with 88 keys. A lifelong musician with over 40 years of experience, Christopher has evolved from a blues-obsessed teenager into a master of soul-jazz improvisation. His sound is a rich tapestry of gospel-influenced harmony, Southern storytelling, and deep emotional honesty. Known for creating powerful "shared spaces" where the line between artist and audience dissolves, Christopher uses improvisation to walk the musical edge—proving that the most beautiful moments are often the ones that are unplanned.

Christopher Shawn is a soul-jazz pianist, organist, and composer whose music blends blues, jazz, gospel-influenced harmony, and Southern storytelling into a sound that is deeply emotional and unmistakably his own. A lifelong musician, he has performed for more than forty years, evolving from a blues-obsessed teenager into a mature, soulful artist whose work resonates across generations and cultures.

Christopher is known for his ability to create powerful “shared spaces” in performance—moments where audience and artist feel connected, present, and transformed. His style is grounded in improvisation and honesty, shaped by personal experiences, spiritual exploration, and a commitment to using music as a force for empathy and uplift.

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