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 Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz today announced the semifinalists in the 21st annual Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition, to be held on Oct. 25 at UCLA’s Schoenberg Hall.
This year’s competition highlights the saxophone. Twelve young saxophonists from across the globe will compete for more than $50,000 in scholarships and prizes in front of an esteemed panel of judges including Wayne Shorter, Jimmy Heath, Greg Osby, Jane Ira Bloom and David Sanchez. The event is free and open to the public.
The 2008 semifinalists are David DeJesus (N.Y.), Quamon Fowler (Texas), Tim Green (Md.), Alex Hoffman (N.Y.), Jon Irabagon (N.Y.), Jason Marshall (N.Y.), Troy Roberts (Australia), Joris Roelofs (native of France), Gilad Ronen (Israel), Evan Schwam (N.Y.), Walter Smith (Calif.) and Gian Tornatore (N.Y.).
Three contestants will move on to perform in a final round at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, backed by an all-star house band, and with some selections accompanied by Dee Dee Bridgewater. The first place winner will receive a $20,000 scholarship and a recording contract with Concord.
More info: monkinstitute.org
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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