The band is led by drummer and composer Franklin Kiermyer who has a pronounced fondness for John Coltrane’s late period and a vision to carry Coltrane’s spiritual freeform jazz forward.
“Music can open our hearts. That’s the purpose of this band.” Says Kiermeyr.
Franklin Kiermyer is known for his expansive drumming style, distinctive sound and spiritual approach to music. Together with young pianist Davis Whitfield, Kiermeyer has now invited legendary alto saxophonist Gary Bartz to tonight’s concert at Fasching.
Bartz became a member of Charles Mingus’ Jazz Workshop from 1962-1964, where he worked with Eric Dolphy and met McCoy Tyner for the first time. Bartz formed his own band in 1968 and in 1970 Miles Davis hired him for his Bitches Brew tour. Bartz has played on about ten of McCoy Tyner’s records and he won a Grammy for his playing on the record Illuminations. In total, Gary Bartz has recorded more than 40 solo albums and over 200 as a guest artist. It is no exaggeration to say that he is one of the living jazz legends.
Franklin Kiermyer, drums
Davis Whitfield, piano
Gary Bartz, saxophone
Geraud Portal, bass
