For many decades, Philadelphia has been home to a cadre of multi-generational jazz musicians who go on year-after-year composing, arranging and performing some of the best, highest level music to be heard anywhere. This tradition is exemplified in no better way than by alto saxophonist, composer and bandleader Bobby Zankel.
Zankel apprenticed with legendary pianist Cecil Taylor and absorbed the most advanced trends of the 1960s and '70s. He then moved to Philadelphia, where he has done his own thing with various ensembles for over three decades. One of his jewels is the big band, Warriors of the Wonderful Sound—a collective of the best, most sophisticated players around, recently supplemented by the phenomenal saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa—and an upcoming collaboration with groundbreaking saxophonist and composer Steve Coleman. The Warriors' music has virtuosity, aesthetic beauty, and rich complexity that is rare in any genre.
All About Jazz Contributor Victor L. Schermer spoke at great length with Zankel, about coming up through Cecil Taylor; the intersection of his life's work with his spirituality; and how to bring more centrist listeners to more left-leaning jazz.
Check out Bobby Zankel: Peaceful Jazz Warrior at All About Jazz today!
Zankel apprenticed with legendary pianist Cecil Taylor and absorbed the most advanced trends of the 1960s and '70s. He then moved to Philadelphia, where he has done his own thing with various ensembles for over three decades. One of his jewels is the big band, Warriors of the Wonderful Sound—a collective of the best, most sophisticated players around, recently supplemented by the phenomenal saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa—and an upcoming collaboration with groundbreaking saxophonist and composer Steve Coleman. The Warriors' music has virtuosity, aesthetic beauty, and rich complexity that is rare in any genre.
All About Jazz Contributor Victor L. Schermer spoke at great length with Zankel, about coming up through Cecil Taylor; the intersection of his life's work with his spirituality; and how to bring more centrist listeners to more left-leaning jazz.
Check out Bobby Zankel: Peaceful Jazz Warrior at All About Jazz today!
