York University music Professor Al Henderson, a renowned jazz bassist, composer and arranger, leads an ensemble of colleagues and friends in the Al Henderson Quintet for a signature performance Nov. 2 at York University from 7:30 to 9:30pm at Tribute Communities Recital Hall.
The show is part of the Department of Music’s Faculty Concert Series, taking place in the Tribute Communities Recital Hall at York’s Keele campus.
Joining Henderson on stage are York instructors Richard Whiteman (piano) and Barry Romberg (percussion), and guest artists Alex Dean (alto and tenor sax, flute, bass clarinet) and Pat LaBarbera (tenor and soprano sax). The concert will feature a selection of Henderson’s original compositions and arrangements.
Henderson has been a seminal force on the Canadian jazz scene for more than 30 years. He has earned critical acclaim and legions of fans as leader of his own bands – the Al Henderson Septet, Quintet and Quartet – and co-founder and co-leader of the groundbreaking group Time Warp. He has also performed as sideman with many leading jazz artists, including Diana Krall, Jane Bunnett, Arnett Cobb, Hank Crawford, Slim Gaillard, Jimmy Knepper and Flip Phillips.
As a composer, Henderson has created a large and distinctive repertoire of original works. More than 60 of his compositions have been recorded by his bands as well as other eminent artists such as Don Pullen, Jane Bunnett, Shox Johnson & the Jive Bombers, Alex Dean and Richard Whiteman.
His accolades include the Jazz Report’s Composer of the Year designation and the prestigious SOCAN Award for Original Jazz Composition.
General admission is $15. Tickets are $10 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online through the York University Box Office, or by phone at 416-736-5888.