On Sept. 23, a quartet of jazz musicians came together at the University Auditorium to perform John Coltrane’s masterpiece “A Love Supreme.” The quarter, made up by a saxophonist, a pianist, a bassist, and a drummer, came together on this Monday afternoon to honor Coltrane on what would have been the musician’s 87th birthday.
This four part suite, divided into individual pieces named Acknowledgment, Resolution, Pursuance, and Psalm, respectively, is widely regarded as the greatest jazz album of all time. The quartet, having never performed together, faced quite a daunting task.
Anybody who has ever attended a jazz performance can attest to the high levels of energy radiating off the musicians on stage. This particular show was no exception. The audience appeared absolutely captivated, particularly by the saxophonist, who had Coltrane’s big shoes to fill.
There was a substantial buildup to the last part of “A Love Supreme” and the consummation of the performance was well-received. The audience showered the quartet with enthusiastic applause, a standing ovation, and chants for an encore. They gladly obliged.
