Pianist Richard Sears possesses an original voice as an improvisor and composer. His composition has been recognized by grants from the Aaron Copland Fund and the Los Angeles Jazz Society. As a performer, Richard has appeared with the likes of Chick Corea, Mark Turner, Muhal Richard Abrams, Joshua Redman, and Billy Hart. His most recent release, “Altadena”, features the legendary drummer, Albert “Tootie” Heath performing with Richard’s sextet. “Altadena” earned 4 stars in Downbeat Magazine, and was named “one of 2016’s best release” by AllAboutJazz.
This concert will feature Martin Nevin on bass, and a prodigious young drummer named Lesley Mok. The trio will perform original compositions and lesser heard jazz compositions.
“Great jazz performances take a listener to a realm that’s both intimately familiar and bracingly new. This exceptional young trio led by pianist Richard Sears dwells in that sweet spot between tradition and discovery. While many of his contemporaries are casting a wide net for influences, Sears and his bandmates are savvy post-bop explorers dedicated to expanding the jazz idiom from within.”
– Andrew Gilbert, San Francisco Chronicle