Jazz Series
From the sensational sounds of Cuban mambo, to the close-knit bond between two legends, to the unpredictable set of a "power piano trio," the new three-concert Jazz Series is sure to excite all listeners.
(All concerts take place in Mandel Hall unless otherwise noted.)
Friday / October 23 / 7:30 pm
Chuchito Valdés Quartet
Displaying the "hell-bent intensity" of his famous family, Chuchito
Valdés continues the tradition of spicy Cuban jazz made popular by his
father, Chucho, and grandfather, Bebo. With his quartet, Valdés livens
up the stage of Mandel Hall in a performance that runs the gamut from
bebop to mambo and cha-cha. Hear why the Chicago Tribune calls the Chuchito Valdés Quartet "jazz improvisation of the most sophisticated kind."
Saturday / January 16 / 7:30 pm
Contempo Double-Bill
Cliff Colnot, conductor
eighth blackbird
Chris Potter, saxophones
Kenny Werner, piano
Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park
Program to include Bernard Rands' "now again"--fragments from Sappho
Contempo's
annual Double-Bill combines the best of living composers, cutting-edge
performances by contemporary artists, and memorable appearances by
legendary jazz musicians. Bernard Rands' work for ten-piece ensemble
anchors the first half, followed by a jam session with saxophonist
Chris Potter and pianist Kenny Werner.
Friday / February 5 / 7:30 pm
The Bad Plus
Whether controversial, audacious or daring, The Bad Plus is anything
but forgettable. One of the most talked-about and notorious acoustic
jazz groups in recent years, the self-proclaimed "power piano trio" has
become known for putting its own groove and visionary spin on
everything from avant-garde jazz to indie rock. Equally commended for
both its original compositions and its fresh take on popular songs, The
Bad Plus is sure to provide an evening worth talking about.