ART OF JAZZ: Joe Alterman Plays the Music of Les McCann: Big Mo & Little Joe

Experience the realm of timeless jazz with Joe Alterman as he takes the stage on March 9, 2025, for an extraordinary concert at the Art of Jazz Series. Renowned for his captivating piano performances, Alterman brings a fresh perspective to the genre, infusing it with his unique style and energy.

Having performed at many world-renowned venues including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Birdland, and Blue Note alongside Houston Person, Les McCann, Dick Gregory, Ramsey Lewis, and his trio, among others, Alterman has solidified his status as a standout talent on the international jazz stage.

This special event celebrates Alterman’s unique recording project, “Joe Alterman Plays Les McCann: Big Mo & Little Joe.” The recording and performance project pays homage to the legendary Les McCann, a pivotal figure in jazz history, and showcases Alterman’s deep appreciation for McCann’s music.

Alterman’s unique friendship with McCann, marked by their frequent phone conversations until McCann’s passing, adds a poignant layer to the tribute. Their shared love for jazz and mutual respect for each other’s craft enriched their bond and influenced Alterman’s interpretations of McCann’s timeless compositions. With soulful renditions of McCann’s classics and original compositions inspired by his legacy, Alterman’s initiative is a heartfelt tribute to one of the greats of jazz.

Despite the passing of McCann, his spirit lives on through Alterman’s heartfelt interpretations of his music. The late Ahmad Jamal, another luminary in the jazz world, hailed Alterman as “a very special artist,” while Ramsey Lewis, who has also since passed, called him “an inspiration” and praised his piano playing as “a joy to behold.”

Famed jazz critic Nat Hentoff,added to the acclaim, stating that Alterman “would have been able to hold his own jamming with…Lester Young, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson, and Duke Ellington.” Alterman is known to swing you out of your seats — don’t be surprised if you start dancing!

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the magic of Joe Alterman in his Buffalo debut, and his extraordinary homage to Les McCann live on stage. Secure your tickets early with a full Art of Jazz Series subscription and join us for an unforgettable time of jazz at the Art of Jazz Series.

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Don’t miss out on securing your season subscription! Lock in your seats early and receive a significant 20% discount. Mark your calendars for these four extraordinary concerts in the Art of Jazz series. Get ready to experience the magic of jazz at its finest at the Buffalo AKG.

Tickets

Secure a 2025 Season Subscription and Save 20%!

Season subscription: $150

AKG member season subscription: $130

General admission (single concert): $45

AKG member general admission (single concert): $40

Visit https://buffaloakg.org/art-jazz-2025 to purchase tickets.