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Jazz legend Rollins to play Finney

Decades into his sax career, Rollins brings his art to Oberlin

By Lauren Viera

 

Let the Oberlin concert season begin, and let it begin with a legend. Dubbed the jazz world's greatest living improviser, saxophone master Sonny Rollins will make his Oberlin appearance Saturday in Finney Chapel.

Rollins

Sixty-six years old, the tenor saxophonist has played with the masters of his era, yet he has been around long enough to define an era for himself. Saturday's performance is his chance to demonstrate that to the Oberlin community, pouring his melodic creativity and expertise in the jazz genre into the ears of talent-hungry students.

Initially a pianist, Rollins spent his childhood in his hometown of New York and reportedly started his lifelong affair with the saxophone after a visit with his uncle.

The young musician's career moved along at warp speed; at the age of 19, Rollins recorded with be-bop singer Babs Gonzales as well as trombonist J.J. Johnson. Before he hit 20, Rollins was already in with the Blue Note crowd, and then got the chance to record with Bud Powell and Fats Navarro, two outstanding musicians of their own genres.

These are just some examples of the talent that Rollins has worked with throughout his career. In the early '50s, the saxophonist joined trumpet king Miles Davis with altoists Jackie McLean and Charlie Parker for various works. And the list goes on and on.

Rollins has always been a member of trio or quartet groups and finally earned a reputation as a jazz leader through the years. He began seeking out a steady threesome for further touring in later years.

His first album, The Bridge, featured guitarist Jim Hall, and eventually drummer Billy Higgins and Don Cherry joined Hall as Rollins's first quartet.

After a short sabbatical in the late '50s, Rollins's career began what may have been the road to a climax that has yet to landslide. Some 40-odd albums later, the saxophonist has released hit after hit, never missing a beat. From bebop to calypso to jazz, Rollins dynamically honed his art, forging a brilliant reputation.

Not only jazz majors can appreciate this master of melody. His smooth style of performance is an event in itself for everyone. Though humble and serious about his work, Rollins is dedicated to his band. His improvisations and his on-stage energy encourages his bandmates to experiment. Rollins said in an interview last year, "I feel that I have to represent my era, so I always try to sound good."


Photo:

Master of his craft: Jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins comes to Finney Saturday.


Oberlin

Copyright ©1996, The Oberlin Review.
Volume 125, Number 3 September 20, 1996
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