Co-presented by the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective and Burchfield Penney Art Center, the annual Coltrane Birthday Celebration will illuminate the stage in the Tower Auditorium on September 27th and 28th, 2024, with performances starting at 7:30 p.m. on both nights.
On Friday, September 27, join the opening reception at 7:00 p.m., where all ticket-holders are invited to enjoy light refreshments in the Second Floor Reception Space. The Burchfield Penney and Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Society members are welcome to start the festivities early at 6:30 p.m. The night will conclude with a performance by the George Caldwell Quintet, featuring special guest Bill Easley (Saxophone), Tim Clarke (Trumpet), Sylvester Sample Jr. (Bass), Sean Jefferson (Drums), and George Caldwell (Piano).
On Saturday, September 28, experience a performance by internationally renowned jazz bass virtuoso Curtis Lundy & Umoja, alongside musicians Jordan Williams (Piano), Abraham Burton (Saxophone), and Jeff “Tain” Watts (Drums).
This performance will pay tribute to the legendary 1956 album, “Chambers’ Music: A Jazz Delegation from the East”, featuring collaborations between bassist Paul Chambers and John Coltrane.
Both concerts will feature opening performances by the Love Supreme School of Music student and faculty band from the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective.
Dawn Martin Berry-Walker, Chief Executive of the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective, shares her excitement for this year’s collaboration:
“On behalf of the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective, I am thrilled to once again collaborate with the Burchfield Penney Art Center to honor the music, life, and legacy of jazz icon John Coltrane. Every year, we present new programming that showcases Coltrane’s unique artistry, continuing to highlight his influence on the world. The timeless and creative nature of his music re-engages and re-inspires audiences at these annual events. This year’s lineup features esteemed musicians who are sure to deliver transformative performances. I look forward to sharing in these ethereal musical experiences with the community over two incredible evenings.”
This year’s Coltrane Celebration commemorative poster will be a limited edition featuring the artwork of the beloved artist William Y. Cooper (1934–2016). Cooper’s vibrant paintings often addressed his African heritage and the American experience, with expressive depictions of jazz icons. All ticket-holders are invited to join Curator Tiffany Gaines for a special tour of the William Y. Cooper: Beyond Imagination retrospective exhibition at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28th. Limited edition posters will be available for purchase at The Museum Store and online.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Burchfield Penney Art Center Visitor Services Desk. Learn more at burchfieldpenney.org.
The 2024 Coltrane Celebration is made possible by generous support from the Office of Senator Sean M. Ryan and the Cullen Foundation.
