The Ellington Collective
$35 Advance | $37 Day of Show
[all-in pricing, no additional fees]
Doors 7pm | Show 8pm “An All-Star Tribute to Jazz Legend Duke Ellington”
Jazz enthusiasts, prepare to be captivated by Boston Based “The Ellington Collective,” an acclaimed jazz ensemble that pays homage to the timeless genius of Duke Ellington. This project features an exceptional lineup of jazz heavyweights, blending their unique talents to breathe new life into Ellington’s classic repertoire. Bob Freeman’s arrangements of these Duke Ellington classics were originally done for saxophonist David Fathead Newman and had never previously been performed live until the debut in 2025. The players have international profiles and an extensive set of credentials performing with a who’s who of the jazz and American music world some of which include: Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, Nat Adderley, Bonnie Raitt, Kurt Elling, Slide Hampton, Dave Liebman, Johnny Hartman, and Joe Pass.
Leading the charge in the horn section is internationally known recording artist, saxophonist, Dan Moretti, a versatile artist known for his dynamic tone and creative interpretations. He is joined by fellow saxophonist Greg Abate, whose powerful playing and bebop sensibilities bring an exciting edge to the ensemble. Trombonist Jeff Galindo adds his signature brass brilliance, creating lush, full-bodied harmonies that are a nod to Ellington’s big band roots.
The rhythm section is anchored by an extraordinary trio of musicians: John Lockwood on bass, whose deep grooves and melodic finesse l ay a rock-solid foundation; Tim Ray on piano, whose virtuosic and expressive playing seamlessly bridges the gap between tradition and innovation; and Marty Richards on drums, providing a rhythmic pulse that i s both sophisticated and electrifying.
Reimagining Ellington’s Classics
“The Ellington Collective” takes listeners on a journey through some of Ellington’s most iconic compositions, like fresh renditions of “Caravan,” “In a Sentimental Mood,” Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, I Let a Song Out of My Heart, Creole Love Song, Jeeps Blues, Prelude to a Kiss and “Sophisticated Lady.” Each track is reimagined with a slightly soulful touch while remaining true to the spirit of the original, showcasing the ensemble’s collective artistry and deep respect for Ellington’s legacy.
“Duke Ellington’s music is as relevant today as it was in his time,” says Dan Moretti, the project’s visionary. “We aimed to honor his work by creating something fresh and exciting, using the unique voices of each musician to bring a new dimension to these timeless pieces.”
A Stellar Lineup of Jazz Talent
The Ellington Collective’s members are no strangers to the spotlight:
• Dan Moretti has made a name for himself with his diverse musical approach, blending jazz, funk, and world music influences. His creative arrangements for this album reflect his wide-ranging experience with 22 albums to his credit.
https://danmoretti.com/
• Greg Abate i s a celebrated saxophonist and composer, known for his fiery playing and deep connection to the bebop tradition. His contributions add a vibrant and expressive voice to the collective voted #3 in 2024 in the Downbeat Readers poll.
https://www.gregabate.com/
• Jeff Galindo , a trombone virtuoso, brings his rich tone and exceptional t echnique, adding depth and power to the group’s sound, has toured with many i conic jazz legends and was Esperanza Spalding’s music director.
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• John Lockwood, a veteran of the Boston jazz scene, delivers masterful bass lines that provide the harmonic and rhythmic backbone of the ensemble. https://college.berklee.edu/people/john-lockwood
• Tim Ray , an acclaimed pianist known for his l yrical touch and improvisational prowess, infuses the album with dynamic and inventive solos.
https://www.agitatedcatmusic.com/
• Marty Richards, drummer a gifted accompanist whose innate sense of swing and unerring sense of time has graced the stage with a “who’s who” of American popular music.
https://www.facebook.com/martyrichardsondrums/
