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…
MARKHAM, ONTARIO—The Markham Jazz Festival runs from August 17–August 19, featuring Canadian pianist Oliver Jones at its 10th Anniversary Gala.
Returning to Markham after performing at the city’s inaugural jazz festival, Jones is one of Canada’s most well-regarded jazz musicians, with a career that spans six decades. The gala concert will take place at the Frederick Horsman Varley Art Gallery on August 11 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $60.
Festival events take place about 30 minutes north of downtown Toronto. The main stage events are located at the Millennium Bandstand and the Varley Patio on Unionville Village’s Main Street, and at the Markham Heritage Museum. To complement the Main Stage events, a variety of venues in Unionville and Markham will present jazz artists in a street festival and concert environment. The theme for this year’s festival is “Servin’ Up Jazz for the Past 10 Years.”
For more information, see markhamjazzfestival.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…
“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.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
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.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
