The talented Mason Jazz Faculty
salutes tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins, long heralded as “the greatest living jazz improviser,” who
continues to inspire generations of musicians. Rollins began his career as a sideman at age 18 in 1949
and played his last live shows in 2012. In a career that spanned seven decades, Rollins recorded more
than 60 albums, featuring works that have become jazz standards such as “St. Thomas,” “Oleo,”
“Airegin,” and countless others.
To commemorate the Saxophone Colossus’ ninetieth birthday, the Mason Jazz Faculty from the Reva and
Sid Dewberry Family School of Music will perform repertoire from a portfolio coauthored by Mr. Rollins
and Professor Jim Carroll. The selections represent Rollins’ deep commitment to social justice and
environmental conscience. The ensemble includes Darden Purcell, voice; Victor Provost, pan; Xavier
Perez, tenor; Jim Carroll, alto; Aaron Eckert, trombone; Graham Breedlove, trumpet; Wade Beach, piano;
Glenn Dewey, bass; Kevin McDonald, drums; and Shawn Purcell, guitar. Join these musicians for a
rousing tribute to one of jazz’s true greats on the Center for the Arts’ outdoor performance space,
Mason Pond Lawn.
