Jerry Hahn performs with Kirkwood ensembles and instructs free master class
Jazz guitarist Jerry Hahn takes the stage at Kirkwood Community College on April 21, as a musician and an educator. Viewed as one of the most celebrated jazz guitarists of his generation, Hahn headlines the performance beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Ballantyne Auditorium. He will share the stage with the Kirkwood Jazz Ensemble and Cedar Rapids Jazz Big Band.
Hahn performs with both groups as a featured artist, led by Kirkwood Instrumental Jazz Music Director Tim Feldkamp. A free master class will be conducted as part of the April 21 performance. The public is invited to the free clinic in 375 Cedar Hall from 1-2:30 p.m.
Hahn debuted as a talented, professional jazz guitarist in Kansas at age 11 when he played daily with the Bobby Wiley Rhythmaiers on Wichita’s first television station, KEDD. At 21, he moved to San Francisco and joined the John Handy Quintet, recording two albums for Columbia Records including the critically acclaimed “Live at Monterey.”
In 1970, Hahn joined Mike Finnigan to form the Jerry Hahn Brotherhood. The following year, Hahn was asked to record on Paul Simon’s first solo album. He eventually moved back to Kansas where he became a Wichita State University faculty member and established the jazz guitar degree program. He is also credited for establishing the jazz guitar degree program at Portland State University.
“Hahn’s own playing is what one would expect from a musician already known as one of the best of his time,” said San Francisco Chronicle reviewer Ralph Gleason. “Jerry Hahn could very well emerge as one of the most important contributors in all of contemporary music.”
Rolling Stone magazine raved, “Hahn is one of the three or four best jazz guitarists in the country.”
Tickets to the April 21 event are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students with a current ID. Kirkwood students and employees are admitted free. Tickets are available at the door.