Kenny Barron and Quintet Deliver a Memorable Jazz Night at SFJAZZ
On April 10, 2025, the SFJAZZ Center in San Francisco buzzed with excitement as legendary pianist Kenny Barron took to the bandstand with his quintet, bringing an exceptional evening of jazz to a packed audience. The occasion marked the first of four nights of performances featuring Barron and his talented collaborators.
Who’s Who in the Quintet
Barron was joined by an impressive lineup of musicians, including:
- Mike Rodriguez – Trumpet
- Christian McBride – Bass
- Immanuel Wilkins – Tenor Saxophone
- Johnathan Blake – Drums
A Playful Introduction
Barron lightened the mood with humor, introducing the quintet as “Four of Us Are from Philly and One of Us Is Not,” referencing his unique ensemble composition. Despite Rodriguez’s Queens origins, it was clear that all members shared a collective joy, particularly resonating with the audience’s recent enthusiasm surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl triumph.
An Unforgettable Performance
The audience was treated to a rich 90-minute experience that defied comparison with the recent NFL title game. The quintet’s synergy was palpable, particularly during their interpretation of Wayne Shorter’s classic tune, “Footprints,” a remarkable 20-minute journey that showcased the group’s cohesive energy, even in their first performance together.
Highlights of the Show
The evening featured standout moments including:
- A captivating rendition of Barron’s original composition “Tragic Magic,” from his recent album, Beyond This Place.
- A vibrant performance of the Latin jazz piece “Thoughts and Dreams,” illustrating Barron’s creative range.
- A spirited take on Thelonious Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” punctuated by dynamic drumming from Blake.
Overcoming Challenges
Even while battling an injury to his middle finger, Barron delivered an impressive performance. “I wasn’t at my best,” he acknowledged, “But I did my best.” His commitment to excellence was evident as he led the ensemble through the final piece, “Baile,” from his 2018 album Concentric Circles.
Upcoming Performances
Barron’s residency at SFJAZZ continues throughout the weekend, with each night promising a different flavor of jazz:
- Solo piano performance on Friday, April 11
- Collaboration with a chamber orchestra on Saturday, April 12
- West Coast premiere of a new chamber work on Sunday, April 13
Jazz enthusiasts looking to catch Barron in action are encouraged to secure their tickets for the upcoming shows. For more details, visit the SFJAZZ website.
Engagement Opportunities
Audiences unable to attend can still experience the magic of the event through a video stream of the performance on “Fridays Live/SFJAZZ At Home,” airing at 7:30 p.m. on April 11.
