Art Ensemble of Chicago

Jazz, Blues, Swing & Chanson

Art Ensemble of Chicago

Wednesday, 14/05/2025 / 08:00 PM - 09:30 PM / Elbphilharmonie (Großer Saal)

The Art Ensemble of Chicago enjoys legendary status: founded in 1967 in the city that gave it its name, the band moved to Paris shortly afterwards. From there, it launched its global career with »Great Black Music« – a unique type of avant-garde jazz that incorporates African, but also Asian and Latin American traditions. In its sixth decade of existence, two old masters of the first generation are still with the band: saxophonist Roscoe Mitchell and drummer Famoudou Don Moye.

Due to health reasons Roscoe Mitchell currently cannot travel to Europe. The line-up will now be completed by James Brandon Lewis and Aquiles Navarro.

With fantastic younger musicians added to the line-up, the collective creates its usually unusual homage to its founding members, staying true to its roots and yet always with its finger on the pulse. »From Ancient to the Future« was the band’s motto right from the start and it speaks volumes about their musical positioning – not only in contemporary jazz, but when it comes to old musical traditions and new music as well.

The album »The Sixth Decade – from Paris to Paris« was recorded in 2020 at the Parisian festival »Sons d’Hiver«, thus also paying homage to the place where it all began. The Guardian writes about the interplay between the old and new guard: » It’s heartwarming to hear the Art Ensemble of Chicago’s devoted heirs so ready to carry the story on.«

PERFORMERS

Art Ensemble of Chicago jazz ensemble

Famadou Don Moye drums, congas, percussion, vocals

Aquiles Navarro trumpet, congas

James Brandon Lewis tenor saxophone

Simon Sieger piano, organ, trombone, tuba, vocals, percussion

Yuniya Edi Kwon violin, vocals, percussion

Junius Paul double bass, electric bass, vocals, percussion, electronics

Dudu Kouaté djembé, congas, percussion, flute, vocals

PROGRAM

»The Sixth Decade«

A Tribute to Lester Bowie, Joseph Jarman, Malachi Favors Maghostut and their lasting contributions to »Great Black Music - Ancient to the Future«

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