Jul 22, 2026 12:37 PM
In Memoriam: Rodney Holmes, 1966–2026
Drummer Rodney Holmes, a powerful presence behind the kit who emerged as an in-demand player on the New York scene…
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
A drummer’s drummer, Rodney Holmes gigged with everyone from Joe Zawinul and Carlos Santana to Steve Kimock and the Brecker Brothers.
Jul 22, 2026 12:37 PM
Drummer Rodney Holmes, a powerful presence behind the kit who emerged as an in-demand player on the New York scene…
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