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…
Bay Area nonprofit SFJAZZ announces a new CEO is set to begin June 15.
(Photo: Henrik Kam)SFJAZZ announced Thursday that Greg Stern would become CEO of the Bay Area nonprofit. His tenure is set to begin June 15 as he succeeds Don Derheim, who was in the role for six years.
“I’m delighted that SFJAZZ has found someone of Greg’s enormous breadth of skills and experience,” said Randall Kline, executive artistic director and founder of SFJAZZ, in a press release. “His expertise in leading one of the country’s most innovative and successful advertising agencies, combined with his love of jazz and his previous service as an SFJAZZ Trustee, is exactly what is needed to ensure that SFJAZZ will continue to grow and prosper.”
SFJAZZ has since 1983 presented concerts and spearheaded education efforts in the Bay, while its namesake collective has included players ranging from saxophonists Joshua Redman and Miguel Zenón to in-demand bassist Matt Brewer.
The SFJAZZ Collective was set to celebrate Miles Davis’ In A Silent Way and Sly & The Family Stone’s Stand! when the coronavirus pandemic interrupted its national tour. DB
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…
