Ornette Coleman

Coincidentally and as if in preparation for the week coming up, I went to watch Ornette Coleman at the Opera House tonight. Coleman is a 77 year old alto saxophonist who also plays trumpet and violin. The first time he appears on stage and walks slowly across toward his instrument(s), he gives the impression of a feeble old man. With his instrument in his hand and his band (mainly comprised of bass players), in full support of him, his presence becomes strong and vibrant. He just gets better and better. His style is free jazz and we were so honoured to listen to him play for about an hour.

This was jazz at its rawest.