May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
The fifth annual Portland Jazz Festival, set for Feb. 15-24, will open with free jazz innovator Ornette Coleman and will feature avant-garde pianist Cecil Taylor. This year’s theme is “The Shape Of Jazz To Come.”
In addition to 18 ticketed performances, Portland Jazz Festival will present approximately 75 free performances, showcasing local and regional talent and nearly 50 jazz education and outreach events.
There are more than 150 events planned during the festival including the Portland Jazz Orchestra as new resident ensemble.
Other artists scheduled to perform during the festival include Bela Fleck & The Flecktones with Oregon Symphony, Nancy King & Fred Hersch and Joshua Redman.
More info: pdxjazz.com
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
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With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
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The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
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Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
