SF Jazz Collective

An all-star jazz repertory company whose mission is to celebrate the masters of modern jazz as well as forge ahead with new material, the SF Jazz Collective is concentrating on the work of seminal pianist McCoy Tyner during its sixth season. The group's modus operandi is to convene annually in San Francisco, work out vibrant arrangements (initially by Gil Goldstein, now by collective members) of the honoree's compositions, supplement them with complementary new tunes from each musician, take it on the road, then issue a limited-edition recording. So far, the results have been spectacular, giving fresh insight into key jazz artists (Ornette Coleman, Coltrane, Monk, Herbie Hancock, and last year Wayne Shorter), and encouraging ensemble play of the highest order. The current collective—packed with musicians of singular spirit and ability—includes saxophonist Joe Lovano (who took over as artistic director last year from Joshua Redman), trumpeter Dave Douglas, Miguel Zenón on alto sax and flute, trombonist Robin Eubanks, pianist Renee Rosnes, bassist Matt Penman, and drummer Eric Harland. $55 at 7 p.m.; $38 at 9:30 p.m.
Tue., March 10, 2009