Chucho Valdés.

>> Chinese vocalist Le Zhang puts arrangements of her native music, poetry and Buddhist Sutras in a modern jazz context, and has gained critical notice on both sides of the Pacific. She’ll be at Twins Jazz tonight, playing 8 and 10 p.m. sets. $10 + $10 food/drink minimum.

>> Saxophonist extraordinaire Kenny Garrett has an earthy sound that can deliver an emotional punch in any setting, ranging from Miles Davis’s later groups to recent work with John McLaughlin and Chick Corea. Also an accomplished bandleader, Garrett will begin a four-night stand of 8 and 10 p.m. sets tonight at Blues Alley. $30 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Saxophonist Jimmy Heath and drummer Albert “Tootie” Heath are not only brothers, but they, along with their late brother, bassist Percy, were among the most influential musicians to come out of the hard bop era. They’ll bring their brotherly sound to the Kennedy Center‘s KC Jazz Club on Friday for 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. sets. Tickets are $26 + fees. The KC Jazz Club will go on to host vocalist Kevin Mahogany on Saturday. 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. sets. Tickets are $26 + fees.

>> Back in July, we profiled Davey Yarborough, the dedicated jazz director at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a gem of DCPS. In addition to being a top-notch educator, Yarborough is also one of the area’s best saxophonists. He and his wife of over 30 years, vocalist Esther Williams, will lead a band on Friday at Jazz Night in Southwest. 6 to 9 p.m. $5.

>> The Washington Performing Arts Society presents Chucho Valdés on Saturday at the Warner Theatre. Valdés is universally acknowledged as a master of Afro-Cuban jazz based on his work with the groundbreaking Irakere and his energetic playing with his own quartets. A technical master on piano who also has a thorough understanding of American jazz forms, Valdés’ rare area appearance is not to be missed. Tickets to the 8 p.m. show are $25 + fees.