Concerts

Legends and Lions: Von Freeman with Jimmy Cobb, plus
Corey Wilkes Young Lions Project

This concert features Chicago jazz legends and rising stars performing on the same stage. Von Freeman is considered the President of Jazz in Chicago. Like his predecessor Lester Young (known as Prez), Freeman's tough and elegant style is instantly identifiable as one of the most unique tenor saxophone sounds to come out of Chicago or anywhere. Former Miles Davis drummer Jimmy Cobb, pianist Richard Wyans and bassist Jon Weber join Vonski for the ride. Trumpeter Corey Wilkes (pictured), one of the most versatile and talented of Chicago's rising stars, leads a band of bedfellows featuring original music representing the new generation of jazz.

Asia-Chicago: Tatsu Aoki's re:ROOTED Project, with
special guests Jon Jang and Francis Wong

What do Korean rock musicians, Japanese Taiko drummers, Chinese folk singers and African-American jazz musicians have in common? They are all united by the drum. Tatsu Aoki's Re:ROOTED Project is the culmination of an exploration of Asian identity and cultural integration in three different communities. Marrying traditional and unconventional musical instruments and forms, the Re:ROOTED Project also blends the unique perspectives of older and younger generations of musicians. The concert features pianist Jon Jang and saxophonist Francis Wong.

Soul on Jazz: Henry Johnson Big Band featuring Chris Foreman, conducted by Johnny Pate, with special guest Nancy Wilson.

Guitarist Henry Johnson's tenure with Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson and Ramsey Lewis were foreshadowed by his years in the gospel and R&B circuit. This concert matches Johnson's abilities with Chris Foreman's passionate discourse on the organ and the great talents of legendary arranger, conductor and former Chicagoan Johnny Pate. Pate will conduct several of his well-known scores, adding the regal style of longtime collaborator and legendary jazz vocalist Nancy Wilson.