Free Jazz

Edward Wilkerson Jr. is one of the great saxophone and clarinet players on the Chicago scene, but from the '80s into the new millennium may have become best known as a bandleader and composer, particularly associated with medium- to large-scale projects (somewhat daunting in an era when creative music bandleaders are challenged to keep even small ensembles together).

Dushun Mosley, Percussionist, is a performer, bandleader and father of three. Based in Chicago, IL he is the bandleader for the Vizitors and the Signature Group, a member of the Eight Bold Souls, Frontburners, Chicago 3D, Shadow Vignettes and the AACM Big Band. Mr. Mosley has toured extensively as a soloist, in duets, trios and big bands.

Roscoe Mitchell is the rare jazz musician who also moves comfortably within the realm of contemporary classical music. It might even be said that Mitchell is a more convincing artist when working in European-influenced forms. When relying on structural and formal jazz conventions, Mitchell can often come off as stilted and unswinging.

George Lewis (born Chicago, Illinois, 1952) is active as a composer, performer, and computer/installation artist. A 20-year member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians, he studied composition with Muhal Richard Abrams at the AACM School of Music and trombone with Dean Hey. He holds a B.A. in philosophy from Yale College.

While attending high school in Chicago in the early '50s, Jarman took up the drums under the tutelage of the famous music teacher Walter Dyett. He switched to saxophone and clarinet while in the army. Upon his discharge in 1958, he returned to Chicago.

Perhaps best known as a composer, improviser, sculptor and maker of masks and instruments, Douglas R. Ewart is also an educator, lecturer, arts organization consultant and all around visionary. In projects done in diverse media throughout an award-winning and widely-acclaimed 30-year career, Mr.

One of the life goals of Ernest Dawkins is to represent the African American cultural experience through his music. His musical art form reflects the rich background and cultural distinctions of African American life.

Tatsu Aoki is one of the most recorded, talked-about bassists on the Chicago music scene. A prolific artist, composer, musician, educator and a consummate bassist, he works in a wide range of musical styles, ranging from traditional Asian music and jazz, to creative free and experimental music.