Three Masters, One Unforgettable Trio
Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 13th at 3 pm, when the Art of Jazz Series proudly presents the incomparable Jeff Hamilton Trio at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. Widely regarded as one of the preeminent trios in jazz today, these three masterful musicians promise to bring an unforgettable performance that bridges the art form’s rich history with its vibrant present. Here’s a closer look at the trio’s remarkable lineup:
Jeff Hamilton
Few drummers have shaped the landscape of modern jazz quite like Jeff Hamilton. His dynamic style, honed during legendary stints with both the Oscar Peterson Trio and the Ray Brown Trio, has earned him a reputation as one of jazz’s foremost talents. Leonard Feather of the Los Angeles Times once described Hamilton as “the Los Angeles–based drummer whose intelligent backing and spirited solo work met Peterson’s customarily high standards.” With more than 200 recordings to his credit—featuring collaborations with Natalie Cole, Diana Krall, Mel Torme, and countless other icons—Hamilton’s resume speaks for itself. His frequent appearances with the WDR Big Band in Cologne, Germany, further highlight his global acclaim. From 1983-1987, he performed with Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra, Rosemary Clooney, and Monty Alexander. Hamilton began his association with the Ray Brown Trio in 1988 and left in March of 1995 to concentrate on his own trio. From 1990-1995, he was also a member of the Oscar Peterson Quartet w/Herb Ellis and Ray Brown. Whether delivering energetic solos or offering impeccable rhythmic support, Jeff Hamilton embodies the essence of jazz drumming at its finest.
Tadataka Unno
Born in Tokyo, Japan, Tadataka Unno discovered jazz at the age of nine and has been enthralled ever since. After studying at Tokyo University of the Arts and establishing himself on the Tokyo jazz scene, he made the leap to New York in 2008. There, he quickly earned respect from luminaries like Hank Jones and Jimmy Cobb, eventually becoming the first and only regular Japanese member of the Jimmy Cobb Trio and the Roy Hargrove Quintet. Unno’s expressive style has graced performances with John Pizzarelli, Houston Person, and Jazzmeia Horn, among others. He has performed with John Pizzarelli, Jimmy Heath, Sadao Watanabe, Houston Person, Frank Wes, Clifton Anderson, Jazzmeia Horn, Winard Harper, Russel Malone, and other jazz greats. In March 2022, he released Get My Mojo Back on Verve Records, one of Japan’s best-selling jazz albums that year. In 2025, Jeff Hamilton personally invited Unno to join his trio, adding a distinctive melodic flair and global perspective to the ensemble.
Jon Hamar
Rounding out the trio is Jon Hamar, a versatile bassist whose tasteful playing and unique sonic voice add a rich, dynamic layer to every performance. A disciplined musician with an impressive track record, Hamar has shared the stage with top jazz figures and performed with the acclaimed Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Jon has performed with Ernestine Anderson, Benny Golson, Terell Stafford, Pete Christlieb the Jeff Hamilton Trio, the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. Jon began performing with the Jeff Hamilton Trio in July of 2018 and recently toured Europe with the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton featuring renowned vocalist Cecil McLaren Salvant.His seamless blend of tradition and innovation embodies the enduring spirit of jazz, making him an integral part of this remarkable trio.
A Celebration of Jazz Heritage and Musicianship
Together, Jeff Hamilton, Tadataka Unno, and Jon Hamar bring a wealth of experience, passion, and creativity to the stage. Their synergy produces an unparalleled musical conversation—one that pays homage to jazz’s storied past while embracing its ever-evolving present. Expect spirited solos, tight ensemble interplay, and an energy that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Performance
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness three extraordinary musicians who have dedicated their lives to perfecting the art of jazz. Reserve your seats now for the Art of Jazz Series on Sunday, April 13th at 3 pm at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, and experience the magic of jazz history in the making. Whether you’re a devoted jazz aficionado or new to the genre, this concert promises to be a highlight of the season—one that you’ll remember for years to come.
Reserve Your Seat Now! Click the link below!
Art of Jazz: The Jeff Hamilton Trio
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