James Brandon Lewis, since leaving his hometown of Buffalo, has risen in the jazz world as an emerging saxophonist of note. Lewis is usually noted for his ability to reach into the past of influences by Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, and Ornette Coleman while crafting a unique improvisational sound that is modern and futuristic. In […]
Now is as good a time as any to catch up on jazz music documentaries you may have heard about. Documentaries that offer a glimpse into the lives of jazz musicians as well as pop musicians who have touched the fringes of jazz. A window into compelling stories that fill the air with intrigue and […]
McCoy Tyner, the legendary jazz pianist, and longtime member of John Coltrane’s quartet died on March 6, according to his nephew Colby, who announced the news on Twitter. He wrote, “Sad to announce the passing of my uncle McCoy Tyner. One of the best jazz pianists ever, a Philly legend.” He was 81. The family also released […]
Jimmy Heath, the legendary jazz giant who performed with many of the historic names in jazz history, including greats such as John Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis, has died. Heath’s grandson announced to NPR and other media outlets that Heath passed away from natural causes on Sunday morning at the age of […]
Blue Note Records, in perhaps its most significant signing in a few years, will introduce South African jazz pianist extraordinaire, Nduduzo Makhathini, to the global jazz community. The visionary South African pianist and composer is set to release his Blue Note Records debut Modes of Communication: Letters from the Underworlds in the spring of 2020. By way […]
Jazz shows up in many places and art forms. A musical play is underway featuring jazz icons. A movie appears out of nowhere. A big band has a special guest. And, more ahead. Read on… Featured Events Ladies Swing The Blues Friday, September 27 @ 8:00 pm – 10:30 pm |Recurring Event (See all) Paul Robeson Theater, 350 Masten […]
(Photo Credits: Jack Zuff) Due to a computer glitch that meant several lights needed to stay on in the Burchfield Penney Art Center auditorium, it meant the lighting was brighter than usual for the Coltrane Celebration concert on Saturday, September 21. The concert and weekend celebration is presented by the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective […]
(Photo Credit: Jack Zuff) Family, love, spirit, healing, body, and soul. All words used in an evening of music celebrating the birthdate and legacy of John Coltrane. Words that aptly describe a night in which the Buffalo audience welcomed home two of its favorite sons – saxophonist Joe Ford and drummer Nasar Abadey. The 4th […]
John Coltrane was born on Spetember 23, 1926. This weekend marks the 93rd birthday year for the legendary saxophonist who if forever etched as a giant in jazz history. Read on to learn how you can join in the birthday celebration this Thursday through Saturday. Featured Event Happy Birthday John Coltrane Celebration! Thursday, September 19 […]
This year, the annual John Coltrane Birthday Celebration will take place for three days in September. The annual event has evolved from a one-day event to a three-day event. Keeping alive a wish by the late Pappy Martin to honor the jazz legend’s birthdate each year. The Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective continues this annual […]
