Five artists with legendary careers, five absolute masters of their instrument meet to bring to life a musical journey that will reach the most evocative Italian and European theaters.
An icon of jazz and fusion drumming, Peter Erskine has written pages of musical history. He was born in New Jersey and began at the age of four to play drums; at eighteen he already began his professional career with the Stan Kenton Orchestra, but it was with Weather Report that the myth really began: together with Jaco Pastorius and Joe Zawinul he became a key member in the golden age of the “Fusion Band” par excellence, recorded five records, including the famous live “8.30,” which won a Grammy Award.
Legendary composer, producer and vibraphonist Mike Mainieri is the founder of Steps Ahead, a group that redefined the fusion of jazz, rock and electronic music. In his career he has collaborated with the likes of Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Dire Straits and David Bowie. His style, characterized by unmistakable lyricism and incredible harmonic sensitivity, is a key element in this project.
Pianist, composer and conductor, John Beasley is best known for his collaboration with Miles Davis and for being the originator of MONK’estra, the acclaimed big band dedicated to Thelonious Monk. A versatile and innovative artist, he has worked with artists such as Freddie Hubbard, Dianne Reeves, Chaka Khan and Steely Dan.
One of the most in-demand saxophonists on the jazz and pop scene, Bob Sheppard has shared the stage and studio with the likes of Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, and Steely Dan.
A son of art-his father is the legendary Jimmy Garrison, John Coltrane’s bassist-Matthew Garrison is one of the most influential innovators of the electric bass. He has developed a unique approach to the instrument, combining breathtaking technique, hypnotic grooves and the creative use of effects and loops. He has collaborated with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Joe Zawinul and John McLaughlin, carrying on the tradition of fusion with an eye to the future.
