Sonny Rollins Opens Toronto Jazz Festival

After the demise of Charlie Parker and before the rise of John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins was regarded as the finest saxophonist in jazz. Playing with Miles Davis in the mid 1950’s, Rollins helped define be-bop as we know it today; and now, approaching his eightieth (!) birthday, Sonny is a testament to the fact that great music has rejuvenating power.

And don’t get the idea that age has muted his exuberance. I saw him at the Montreal Jazz Festival three years ago and the performance was full of life, joy, and overwhelmingly, good humour. There were smiles and a feeling of uplift as Rollins, through his instrument, reminded us just why it is that we listen to music.

He’ll be at the Four Seasons Centre, Friday, June 26 – I highly recommend you go!