Mike Stern Performance and Masterclass

One of the great jazz guitarists of his generation, Mike Stern has the unique ability to play with the finesse and lyricism of Jim Hall, the driving swing of Wes Montgomery and the turbulent, overdriven attack of Jimi Hendrix. Growing up in the Washington, D.C. area, Stern revered all three of those guitar immortals, along with such potent blues guitarists as Albert and B.B. King. Aspects of those seminal influences can be heard in his playing on the 18 recordings he has released as a leader or in his acclaimed sideman work for Miles Davis, Billy Cobham, the Brecker Brothers, Jaco Pastorius, Steps Ahead, David Sanborn, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Joe Henderson and the all-star Four Generations of Miles band.

One of the top guitarists in jazz since his breakthrough days with Miles Davis’ celebrated comeback band of the early 1980s, Stern has earned the respect of colleagues and critics alike while also exerting a towering influence on a generation of aspiring players. A guitarist of formidable technique, he continues to awe and inspire six-string aficionados with his seamless blend of bebop facility, scorching rock intensity and uncommon lyricism. As Jon Chappell of Guitar magazine noted, “Stern is not only a magician of the fretboard but a heartfelt and mature composer of great depth.” By combining the legato approach of jazz saxophone greats like John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and Joe Henderson with a few touches from the rock camp (i.e., distortion and delay pedals along with some urgent string bending, courtesy of his boyhood blues heroes B.B. King and Buddy Guy), Stern has successfully fashioned a singular voice that comfortably occupies both rock and jazz worlds.

Mike will be joined by drummer Paul Wertico and Chicago bassist Eric Hochberg

Reservations are not required, but to be guaranteed a seat please call or email for a reservation since seating is limited.

When: Saturday, June 8th- from 1pm – 3pm
Where: PM Woodwind – space next door –
826 Custer Ave. Evanston, IL 60202

Info: PM Woodwind – 847-869-7049

PM Woodwind is easily accessible
by the CTA Redline Main Street stop or the Metra Main Street Station. Street parking is available.

As always, this event is free and open to the public.

Mike and his group will be performing at the Jazz Showcase June 6 – June 9. Please check them out!

Visit Mike Stern at: http://www.mikestern.org

Visit us at: pmwoodwind.com