8:30pm.

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Wadada Leo Smith - trumpet

Jason Stein - bass clarinet

Damon Smith - double bass

Adam Shead - drums/percussion

Rembrandt Chamber Musicians inaugurates its Jazz & Improvised Music Series with a rare appearance by visionary trumpeter, composer, AACM member, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Wadada Leo Smith, joined by the acclaimed Stein/Smith/Shead Trio. A towering figure in contemporary creative music, Smith has spent more than six decades redefining the possibilities of jazz through his concept of “Creative Music” and his pioneering Ankhrasmation language scores. His celebrated works and collaborations with artists ranging from Anthony Braxton and Vijay Iyer to the Kronos Quartet and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra have established him as one of the most influential musical voices of our time. This special evening brings Smith together with bassist Damon Smith, bass clarinetist Jason Stein, and percussionist Adam Shead for a performance grounded in spontaneity, deep listening, and collective exploration.

Bass clarinetist Jason Stein is internationally recognized as one of the leading practitioners of his instrument, praised by The Wire as “the most emotionally present bass clarinet player since Eric Dolphy” and celebrated for his focused yet fiery approach to improvisation. Double bassist Damon Smith, a longtime collaborator of Wadada Leo Smith and founder of Balance Point Acoustics, brings a deeply personal language informed by decades of work with masters of free improvisation and collaborations spanning music, film, dance, and visual art. Completing the ensemble is Chicago-based percussionist Adam Shead, whose work as a performer, composer, and curator has made him a vital presence in the city’s creative music community. Together, these four artists promise an evening of profound musical conversation, fearless improvisation, and singular artistry.

This concert is generously supported by Rembrandt Chamber Musicians and WDCB 90.9 FM.