Branford Marsalis & Dianne Reeves Celebrate John Coltrane

John Coltrane

He was only forty years old, but during his short life, tenor saxophonist John Coltrane managed to leave an unprecedented mark on global jazz. As a performer, as a composer, and above all in both capacities as an innovator who shook jazz to its foundations worldwide. He was a guest at the Concertgebouw three times. In April 1960, he made his debut in the Main Hall as a member of the Miles Davis Quintet. In November 1961, he returned with his own John Coltrane Quartet, including Eric Dolphy, and in October 1963, he gave another legendary concert with his quartet. Tonight, his soul briefly returns to the Main Hall during a tribute by two other legends: Branford Marsalis and Dianne Reeves.

Branford Marsalis

Saxophonist Branford Marsalis is one of the most influential and admired musicians of our time. The NEA Jazz Master, three-time Grammy winner, and Tony and Emmy Award nominee collaborates with a symphony orchestra just as naturally as with members of the Grateful Dead. However, the heart of his work is his Branford Marsalis Quartet. For over thirty years, this quartet has been known for its uncompromising performances of both original compositions and jazz and pop classics. The quartet previously caused a sensation in Amsterdam with works by Coltrane. In 2003, they made a legendary live recording at the Bimhuis of their version of Coltrane's classic A Love Supreme .

Dianne Reeves

Dianne Reeves, five-time Grammy Award winner and winner of the 2011 Concertgebouw Jazz Award, is one of the greatest jazz vocalists in the world. With her virtuoso improvisations and unique blend of jazz and R&B, she made history by winning the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance three times in a row. She also appeared in George Clooney's award-winning film Good Night, and Good Luck , for which she also received a Grammy. Reeves holds honorary doctorates from DePaul University, Berklee College of Music, and the Juilliard School and, like Marsalis, was named an NEA Jazz Master, the highest jazz honor in the United States.