Jazz at the Red Door: Nat Reeves Trio

Join us on Friday, September 26, at 7:30pm as we welcome the Nat Reeves Trio. A favorite sell-out annual event, this jazz trio will be an event that you cannot miss. Nat Reeves will be joined by the legendary composer, and pianist George Cables and profoundly gifted musician and groundbreaking, innovative drummer Mike Clark.

Click here to download the full program pdf.

A reception will follow the concert.

The concert is free admission, suggested donation $20. Checks payable to Music at the Red Door or click here to donate online.

Livestream:

PROGRAM:
TBA

About the Artists

Nat Reeves is a prominent figure in jazz music, recognized for his dual role as a bassist and educator. His extensive career includes collaborations with legendary musicians and a commitment to teaching the next generation of jazz artists.

Nat Reeves has performed with iconic jazz musicians including Jackie McLean, Pharoah Sanders, and Kenny Garrett, showcasing his skills as a versatile bassist. His recordings, such as “State of Emergency” and “Blue Ridge,” highlight his rhythmic precision and melodic contributions.

As a former professor at the University of Hartford’s The Hartt School, Reeves has dedicated much of his life to music education, mentoring students to develop their technical skills and understanding of jazz. His teaching approach emphasizes creativity and historical context.

Beyond formal education, Reeves actively participates in workshops and outreach programs, aiming to introduce jazz to younger audiences and foster appreciation for the genre. His efforts have significantly impacted the jazz community and the next generation of musicians.

In summary, Nat Reeves is a highly influential figure in both jazz music and jazz education. His extensive performance history with some of jazz’s most respected figures, combined with his dedication to teaching and mentoring, has left an impressive legacy in the jazz community.

George Cables © Roberto Cifarelli

George Cables, born on November 14, 1944, in New York City, is a prominent figure in modern jazz known for his versatile keyboard skills and collaborations with renowned musicians. His journey began in the city, where he developed a passion for jazz during his education at the High School of Performing Arts.

Cables was influenced by the freedom of expression in jazz, drawing inspiration more from band dynamics than individual pianists like Herbie Hancock and Chick Corea. After studying at Mannes College of Music, he played with The Jazz Samaritans and recorded with various artists, gaining recognition in the New York jazz scene.

A tour with Sonny Rollins in 1969 brought him to the West Coast, where he became a significant figure in the Los Angeles and San Francisco jazz scenes through collaborations with various artists. Cables has performed with jazz legends and continues to be active as a soloist, in ensembles, and as a clinician, contributing to the jazz landscape with his compositions and interpretations.

Drummer Mike Clark achieved legendary status as one of America’s foremost jazz and funk artists during his four-year tenure with Herbie Hancock. His incisive and innovative playing on Hancock’s “Actual Proof” garnered him an international cult following and influenced generations of drummers and musicians. Mike went on to tour with Brand X, making some groundbreaking recordings, such as “Product” and “Do They Hurt?” He has worked and recorded with Christian McBride, Kenny Garrett, Eddie Hendrson, Donald Harrison, Nat Adderley, George Cables and Tony Bennett, among others. He has recorded many records as a leader and a sideman and remains an active member of the New York Jazz scene.