We’re sorry, this concert is sold out! Please call (858) 454-5872 to inquire about tickets at the door.
Thursday, September 29, 2022
7:30 PM
The series opens on Thursday, September 29, with the Willie Jones III Quintet, an all-star ensemble featuring Jones on drums, past Tonight Show Band member Ralph Moore on tenor sax, San Diego’s own Gilbert Castellanos on trumpet, Sam Hirsh on piano, and Luca Alemanno on bass. Jones’ association with the Athenaeum goes back to 1995, when he first appeared at the library in the stellar collective Black Note alongside longtime friend Castellanos.
An L.A. native who studied with West Coast masters Billy Higgins and Tootie Heath, Jones moved to New York City in 1997. His career credits are the definition of an “in-demand” musician, having been chosen by Hank Jones, Milt Jackson, Cedar Walton, and Arturo Sandoval to be a core member of their ensembles, plus stints with Joe Lovano, Horace Silver, Wynton Marsalis, and Sonny Rollins. In addition to his sideman gigs, Jones has recorded eight albums as a leader, including his latest, Fallen Heroes, which celebrates the music and legacy of four jazz greats Jones had the privilege to work with: Ndugu Chancler, Roy Hargrove, Larry Willis, and Jimmy Heath.
JazzTimes wrote, “Jones is one of the most animated drummers on the New York scene . . . this band’s essence: they pounce on every idea that the music presents and bring these vibrant pieces to life.”
The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 7 p.m. Seating is first-come; first-served. These events will be presented in compliance with State of California and County of San Diego health regulations as applicable at the time of each concert.
Masks optional. If you have a fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms, please stay home.