Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
The Chicago Jazz Ensemble (CJE), led by Artistic Director Jon Faddis, continues the Ninth American Heritage Jazz Series with The Music of Duke Ellington: Featuring Ellington’s Sacred Concerts, Dec. 14 at Chicago’s Harris Theater. Preceding the concert, Faddis will discuss the legacy of Ellington with music writer and broadcaster Neil Tesser.
Ellington called his Sacred Concerts the most important works he’d ever written. These works, composed between 1965 and 1973, combine elements of jazz, European classical, choral music, blues, dance, spirituals and gospel. Faddis and the CJE will be joined by a full gospel choir, featuring CJE vocalist Bobbi Wilsyn with special guest vocalists Stephanie Dixon, Maggie Brown and Robert Sims. Tap dancer Bril Barrett also joins the Ensemble.
More info: chijazz.com
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
Jul 8, 2025 7:30 AM
At 56, Rodney Whitaker, professor of jazz bass and director of jazz studies at Michigan State University, is equally…
Jul 17, 2025 11:35 AM
The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
