McCoy Tyner, a former member of John Coltrane's classic quartet, is one of the most important jazz pianists alive. Indeed, it is not an overstatement to say that modern jazz has been shaped by Tyner’s blues-based piano style.
The 73-year-old jazz legend will return with his trio and old friend Joe Lovano to perform at 8 p.m. Saturday at Georgia State University’s Rialto Center for the Arts.
The Atlanta performance is one of many Tyner has done over the years in this city.
“It’s a wonderful city and I always love coming down to play for the people there,” he said a few days before the scheduled performance.
Tyner will be joined by bassist Gerald Cannon, drummer Francisco Mela and Lovano on saxophone.
“Joe and I go back a long way and Gerald plays in my trio,” he said. “I've played with Mela for a couple years now as well and I'm looking forward to making music together.”
Lovano, the Grammy-winning saxophonist, composer and frequent Rialto guest, has played alongside the likes of Herbie Hancock, Abbey Lincoln, Ornette Coleman and Ravi Coltrane. The show will cover a range of material, but Tyner doesn't stick to a script.
“We always change up the set list each show,” he said.
An original member of Coltrane's seminal quartet (1960-65), Tyner is hardly dependent on his past to ensure his future. He has made more than 80 albums as a bandleader and composer and from the looks of things, he still isn’t finished.
Asked how long he intends to keep up this pace, Tyner said, “Well, I think I was put here for a reason. And I'm very fortunate that so many people want to listen.”
Earlier this week, he talked about his long and fruitful career.
Credit: John Abbott
Credit: John Abbott
Q. Most people know you from your work with the John Coltrane Quartet. Tell me about the moment that happened and how has it impacted you personally and professionally?
A. Playing with John was a very special period in my life. He was my teacher and, in a way, like a big brother to me. John was a very deep and spiritual person and I know his intent was for that to come across in his music. John was from Philly too, so I had known him even before I started playing with him. It was a very special time in my life.
Q. When you joined the quartet, you were already an accomplished musician in your own right. How difficult was it to remain true to your own artistic style and was that even a concern?
A. Like I said, John was a teacher for me, as well as family. He helped me so much in finding my voice and what it is I wanted to say with my music. I'll never forget what he did to help me personally and professionally.
Q. After playing with the Coltrane quartet, how difficult was it for you to move on to play with new musicians and develop your own identity?
A. I think that I was just ready to go out on my own. John was starting to go in one direction and I was coming into my own as a composer and solo artist and John encouraged that. It all contributed to where I am and what I've become today.
Q. To your credit, your career after Coltrane has been far from anti-climatic.
A. I've always managed to continue playing, being myself and try to keep things fresh and new. There are always interesting new directions to take the music.
Q. In what way, if any, has your musical style changed over the years?
A. It's changed in many different ways. I just try to listen and go where the music takes me. I always make sure to stay true to myself though.
Q. You have a prolific recording history. What are three of your favorites?
A. Ha-ha. I can't pick any favorites. They are all special to me and have a different place in my life.
Q. Are you working on any new projects?
A. I'm always thinking of different new projects. I love touring with Joe Lovano and I'll be out with Ravi Coltrane this summer. Maybe we'll go into the studio again soon ... you'll have to wait and see.
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