Steve Ellington is serious about sharing music, and in more ways than entertaining an audience with his own sound.

The Steve Ellington Jazz Trio will perform from 6-9 p.m. at Mutt’s this Friday. The performance will begin a weekly show at the restaurant.

He also plans to get local artists in on the act.

“I’d like to do some jam sessions, maybe the last set or so. And also, I’m looking to showcase some local musicians and to set up some recording demos for them in the future,” Ellington said. “I’d like to have our own little talent search starting in Selma.”

Ellington, 67, is an Atlanta native and lives in Uniontown. He is the percussionist and vocalist in the trio. Keyboardist/trombone player Ike Bell and saxophonist Lonnie Jones form the rest of the group.

Ellington has worked on more than 600 recordings, with a Grammy win and two nominations, as well as movie soundtracks and promotional work. Among several other artists, he has played with Kermit Orr (former member of Miles Davis’ band), the Hal Galper Trio and the late Michel Petrucianni, an iconic jazz pianist.

He has played at renowned venues both in the U.S. and internationally.

His goal is to foster the musical talent he sees in the Black Belt area.

“I’m here for the music, and I plan to bring some more musicians in, even if they have to stay at the house with me,” Ellington said. “It’s time in Selma to do something.”