Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
Flea Finds His Jazz Thing
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
Late jazz legends often become the subject of memorial concerts and albums years after their passing, but an annual tribute to Charlie Parker gives that formula a fresh twist—a “21-Sax Salute” will take place at the saxophonist’s grave site next month.
Held yearly on a weekend close to Bird’s birthday (Aug. 29), the event features a collective performance and will be conducted Aug. 26 at 1 p.m. Saxophonists and other musicians from Kansas City and nearby areas will be on hand to celebrate the life of one of the most influential jazz figures of all time. The “21-Sax Salute” was initially started by the late Eddie Baker, president of the Charlie Parker Memorial Foundation, and is now lead by saxophonist Ahmed Alaadeen and Dean Hampton. The tribute is open to all instrumentalists, regardless of musical ability, as well as the general public.
Parker’s grave site is located in Blue Summit, Mo., just outside Kansas City. The address is 8604 E. Truman Road. Musicians are asked to report at 12:30 pm. Go here for a map with directions.
“Cerebral and academic thought is a different way to approach music,” Flea says of his continuing dive into jazz. “I’ve always relied on emotion and intuition and physicality.”
Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
Cécile McLorin Salvant busts out Jelly Roll Morton’s “The Murder Ballad” at Big Ears, here with pianist Sullivan Fortner.
Apr 7, 2026 1:21 PM
There’s pluralism, then there’s PLURALISM! — and then there’s Big Ears. Thurston Moore, who participated in…
Each of the 25 JAMs has delivered a poster featuring a jazz legend that is sent out to schools across the nation. This year’s poster features Tony Bennett.
Mar 30, 2026 10:20 PM
Every April for the past quarter century, something remarkable has happened across the United States and far beyond.…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Bollani demonstrates at the piano during a live Blindfold Test in Umbria, Italy, while writer Ashley Kahn, right, and translator Greg Burk look on.
Mar 24, 2026 11:42 AM
Raconteur, bon vivant and popular television host Stefano Bollani is also one of Italy’s best-known pianists, a rare…
