This exclusive presentation of the Modern Jazz Quartet's fortieth anniversary concert presents the signature sounds that have ensured the group's lasting legacy in the history of music. Filmed live in Stuttgart, Germany, the Quartet is accompanied by the lush sound of a full string orchestra.

Pianist and composer John Lewis, bassist Percy Heath, vibraphone extraordinaire Milt Jackson and drummer Mickey Roker (subbing for Connie Kay) create an unforgettable performance that defines the dignity of Jazz. The distinguished Modern Jazz Quartet traces its origins to the irrepressibly flamboyant Dizzy Gillespie and his brassy, shouting, Big Band.

In the late 1940s, Dizzy Gillespie's Big Band was in high demand and when Dizzy's horn section was on break, the rhythm section kept playing as a quartet. In time, the group discovered a musical connection and eventually evolved into a band in its own right...the MJQ. In this, the MJQ's 40th Anniversary Concert, the group performs with the soul and the skill that exemplifies the jazz spirit.

You'll hear the band's love for classical European music reflected in gems like the Three Windows (Medley from No Sun in Venice). "Classical" seems to be the key term here, for the Quartet's musicians grew up inspired by the giants of classical American Jazz such as Lester Young, Teddy Wilson, and Sid Catlett.

The MJQ exemplifies the beautiful flux between classical and jazz music in a fashion that has assured it's lasting legacy in the world of jazz and stands as a venerable example of how tradition and innovation can merge into a deeply beautiful sound.

SELECTIONS
Three Windows (Medley from No Sun in Venice)
Sketch
Alexander's Fugue
Adagio from Concierto de Aranjues
A Day in Dubrovnik Suite

MUSICIANS
John Lewis - Piano
Percy Heath - Bass
Milt Jackson - Vibes
Mickey Roker - Drums
with the Kammerorchester Arcata

⏺️ WHO IS ARKADIA CONCERTS?
Arkadia Concerts is a branch of the Award-Winning Record and Video labels, Arkadia Records & VIEW, offering the very best in Jazz, Pop, World Music and Performing Arts since 1981. We are proud that no less than 51 NEA Jazz Masters have recorded on our Arkadia Records labels.