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 Monterey Jazz Festival has announced the members of its 2008 Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, the fest’s high school all-star big band.
The Next Generation Jazz Orchestra nurtures the future generation of jazz stars through a program that selects the best and brightest high school jazz musicians in the country. In 2008, the 21-piece jazz orchestra features members selected from 18 high schools.
Under the direction of Paul Contos, the orchestra includes:
Saxophones:
John Palowitch, alto***
Hailey Niswanger, alto
Adam Larson, tenor**
Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, tenor
Owen Broder, baritone**
Trombones:
John Egizi
Javier Nero**
Stephen Szabadi**
Natalie Cressman
Emmanuel Rojas, bass
Trumpets:
Blake Martin
Kevin Early**
Gabe Medd
Nick Frenay**
Noah Hocker
Rhythm:
Emmet Cohen, piano
Mike Gurrola, bass
Armand Hirsch, guitar
Jimmy Macbride, drums
Daniel Nadeau, drums
Richard Saunders, vocals
** 2-time member of NGJO; *** 3-time member of NGJO
More info: montereyjazzfestival.org
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…
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).…
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…
