While some may consider the violin to be a slightly unconventional jazz instrument, such restrictive conventions have never hindered Regina Carter's creativity. Growing up in Detroit, Carter played in orchestral string sections, but longed to find a more individual mode of expression. Hearing jazz violin legend Stephane Grappelli opened her ears to a different approach and started a lifelong love affair with jazz and improvisation. Since she began releasing recordings as a leader in the mid-1990s, Carter has continued to make bold choices and blaze her own musical trail. Her diverse projects include a celebration of the musical heritage of Detroit, from Thad Jones to Marvin Gaye; a disc of duets with the great pianist Kenny Barron; a loving tribute to her late mother's favorite songs of the swing era; and a live album documenting her triumphant performance in Genoa, Italy on the famous “Il Cannone” violin once owned by Niccolò Paganini—the first time a jazz musician was invited to play the legendary instrument. A relentlessly creative artist with extraordinary versatility, Carter has performed with leading musicians in many genres, from Wynton Marsalis to Mary J. Blige.
Inside Jazz: The Jazz Standard
Speaker: Sonny Buxton, KCSM Radio Host
7 pm, free with concert ticket