UB's 'Slee Visiting Artist Series' presents Grammy-winning 'Passion for Bach and Coltrane' by Jeffrey Scott

University at Buffalo Press Release

The University at Buffalo’s “Slee Visiting Artist Series” presents the Grammy Award-winning “Passion for Bach and Coltrane” by acclaimed composer Jeffrey Scott on Friday, April 25 (7:30 p.m.), in Lippes Concert Hall, Slee Hall. This groundbreaking work is an eight-movement suite for wind quintet, string quartet, jazz trio and orator, featuring poetry by the distinguished A.B. Spellman, who will also serve as the evening’s orator.

A preconcert talk begins at 7 p.m., offering audiences deeper insight into the piece’s inspiration and creative process.

Inspired by the fusion of Johann Sebastian Bach’s structured brilliance and John Coltrane’s improvisational genius, Scott’s composition bridges classical and jazz traditions, celebrating the profound impact of both musical icons.

This concert brings together the Grammy-winning ensembles Imani Winds and Harlem Quartet, alongside a stellar jazz trio, for an unforgettable performance that pushes the boundaries of chamber music.

Featured performers include: Spellman, orator; Imani Winds: Brandon Patrick George, flute and piccolo; Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboe; Mark Dover, clarinet; Kevin Newton, horn; and Monica Ellis, bassoon; Harlem Quartet: Ilmar Gavilán, violin; Melissa White, violin; Jaime Amador, viola; and Felix Umansky, cello; jazz trio: Alex Brown, piano; Edward Perez, bass; and Neal Smith, drums.

The “Slee Visiting Artist Series” brings world-class musicians and composers to the University at Buffalo, enriching the region’s cultural landscape through performances, lectures and masterclasses.

Tickets are $20. Advance tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/slee-beethoven-string-quartet-cycle-part-buffalo-new-york-03-27-2025/event/00006121A5262730); at the Center for the Arts box office, from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; or at the Slee Hall box office within the hour before concert time.

UB students with a valid ID are entitled to one complimentary ticket for each UB music department concert. They may pick up their complimentary ticket before concert time.