Events

[JAZZ] John Coltrane would have turned 92 this Sunday, September 23, but there was lnever much chance that he would live that long: He died at 40 of liver cancer, or possibly hepatitis, or both, the wages of his long tangle with heroin. Not that the saxophonist had a brief career—he was playing professionally by 19 and was turning the jazz world on its head by his mid 20s. This weekend—from Thursday, September 20 through Saturday, September 22—the Pappy Martin Jazz Collective will host its annual celebration of Coltrane’s birthday at the Burchfield Penney Art Center. On Thursday at 7pm there’s a lecture by SUNY Buffalo State professor Chuck Mancuso, with George Caldwell on piano. Caldwell’s trio will perform Friday evening with acclaimed saxophonist Rob Dixon and guest appearances by Ahmad Pleasant and Amari McDade. And Saturday’s full-day program includes a noon performance by the Progressions Quartet, screenings of two short films about Coltrane, and then evening performances by the Greg Millar Quartet, followed by Gary Bartz with the Curtis Lundy Trio. There’s much more in store, as well, all in remembrance of a colossus. If you’re a jazz fan or just Coltrane curious, park yourself at the Burchfield all three days. Visit burchfieldpenney.org for ticketing information.