Apr 11, 2023 10:47 AM
Brad Mehldau Tells His Story
At the tail end of 2022, Brad Mehldau took advantage of a New York sojourn to play piano with old friends at Smalls…
The Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, a Chicago-based trio known for its innovative musical approach consisting of a drum and two horns, celebrates its 25th anniversary with a tour by members Kahil El’ Zabar, Ernest Dawkins and Joseph Bowie.
Percussionist El’ Zabar has performed with musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, Donny Hathaway, Henry Threadgill, Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder. Aside from leading the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, he also heads up the Ritual Trio featuring bassist Malachi Favors and saxophonist Ari Brown.
Saxophonist Dawkins is as well-known for his work as an educator and performer in the Chicago area. Leading the New Horizons Ensemble since 1978, he has collaborated with music greats, including Ramsey Lewis, Lester Bowie, Anthony Braxton and Jack McDuff.
Trombonist Joseph Bowie, younger brother of trumpeter Lester Bowie, was led to the EHE through his work with the band Defunkt. Bowie also tours and records with several European artists including the Vienna Arts Orchestra, Count Basie Orchestra and the Sebastian Peikarek Quartet.
The tour dates are as follows:
“Perhaps that’s a key to what makes me tick — a very strong curiosity, which makes me a perpetual fanboy of whatever I’m discovering,” Mehldau says.
Apr 11, 2023 10:47 AM
At the tail end of 2022, Brad Mehldau took advantage of a New York sojourn to play piano with old friends at Smalls…
Ahmad Jamal (1930–2023) with his trio at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago.
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