Don't miss our free Listening Sessions with Meshell (January 19) and Christian (January 18).
In this compelling pairing, bassist Christian McBride and bassist/vocalist Meshell Ndegeocello join the CJE for an evening of music by the legendary bassist and composer Charles Mingus. The program takes its inspiration from the last album Mingus made before his death at the age of 56 – his 1978 collaboration with pop genius Joni Mitchell, the album Mingus, which mixed pop, jazz fusion, and Mitchell’s vocals in a valedictory celebration of his life.
That description might also apply to singer, rapper, and electric bassist Ndegeocello, who has earned 10 Grammy nominations for her genre-hopping artistry. She just released her ninth album, Weather. “Meshell is a great collaborator, just as Mingus was with Joni,” explains Artistic Director Dana Hall. “I think there are a lot of ways we can explore that music, and also the other music where Joni reflects her interest in jazz. We’ll be re-imagining Mingus for the 21st century, not just replaying the album.” Recently Ndegeocello collaborated with jazz pianist Jason Moran in NYC on a musical tribute to Fats Waller.
McBride,
who was named 2011 Bassist of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association,
released his own Grammy-nominated big-band recording in September, The Good Feeling, adding yet another chapter to
the remarkable litany of the different projects – from mainstream jazz to bands
that incorporate hip-hop and gospel – that have benefited from his prodigious
technique and musicality. “He’s been on the scene more than 20 years now,” Hall
says, “and if anyone can exploit the fact that Mingus was such a strong
instrumentalist, it’s Christian.” McBride has worked with the likes of Freddie
Hubbard, Sonny Rollins, J.J. Johnson, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock,
and Pat Metheny.
Watch video of Christian and Meshell
Section A: $48
Section B: $30
Section C: $18
SUBSCRIBE and save 30% on tickets! Attend all three shows at the Harris Theater for as little as $40! Discounts are available for full season (30%) and 2-pack mini (25%) subscription packages. In addition to our very best discounts, exclusive season ticket benefits include priority seating, bonus tickets, a free subscription to Downbeat magazine, complimentary wine receptions at concert intermission, cost savings on handling fees, plus invitations to attend Open Rehearsals and other special events. Season subscriptions available from $40-100, mini subscriptions from $27-72. Full-time student subscriptions only $15 (must present valid ID).
All subscription packages must be purchased by phone via the Harris Theater. Call 312.334.7777 between 12 - 6 p.m., Monday-Friday.
