Bill Frisell: 75th Birthday Celebration with Special Guests
About This Event
Bill Frisell marks his 75th birthday with a program in the Appel Room at Jazz at Lincoln Center that draws on his long-running role in jazz and American song and on a collaborative approach that favors understatement and close listening. Special guests include Africa, trumpeter Etienne Charles, bandolinist Hamilton de Holanda, vocalist Jazzmeia Horn and Wynton Marsalis with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, bringing Caribbean, Brazilian, vocal and big‑band textures to the program.
About Birth of the Blues(song)
“Birth of the Blues” is a 1926 popular song by Ray Henderson, Buddy DeSylva, and Lew Brown, written for Broadway’s *George White’s Scandals* and quickly absorbed into the jazz repertoire. Its lyric treats the blues as a kind of folk invention, tracing the music to an imagined origin story rather than documented history. In New York, it would have been heard first in the Broadway run at the Apollo Theatre, then carried outward through recordings and dance bands. The song is a reminder of how Broadway helped package Black musical forms for mainstream audiences.
About the Artists
Bill Frisell
Bill Frisell, a master of the jazz guitar, has captivated audiences for decades with his innovative blend of jazz, folk, country, and rock ‘n’ roll. A key figure in New York City's vibrant music scene, Frisell has left his mark at venues like Jazz at Lincoln Center, where he will soon celebrate his 75th birthday with a special series of performances in the Appel Room.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, a vibrant ensemble under the artistic leadership of Wynton Marsalis, stands as a cornerstone of New York City's jazz scene. Known for their dynamic performances at iconic venues like Jazz at Lincoln Center and 92NY, this group brings the rich tradition of big band jazz to life with a modern twist.
Wynton Marsalis
Wynton Marsalis stands as a towering figure in the world of jazz, captivating audiences with his exceptional artistry and dynamic performances. As a key performer at New York City's iconic Jazz at Lincoln Center, Marsalis infuses his music with both tradition and innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of sound that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Jazzmeia Horn
Jazzmeia Horn stands out as a dynamic force in the jazz world, captivating audiences with her rich, soulful voice and impressive artistry. Frequently gracing the stage at iconic venues like Smoke Jazz & Supper Club and Jazz at Lincoln Center, Horn brings a fresh take to jazz, blending timeless standards with her own original compositions.
Etienne Charles
Etienne Charles is a Trinidadian jazz trumpeter and composer known for blending Caribbean rhythms with jazz, and he has gained acclaim for his innovative performances and compositions.
Hamilton de Holanda
Hamilton de Holanda, a virtuoso on the bandolin, is a captivating force in the world of jazz, seamlessly blending the rich traditions of Brazilian choro with the free-flowing spirit of contemporary jazz.