Description:

Derrick Gardner and Kevin Fort, conductors 

Pianist and composer Robert Henry Timmons is remembered for his incorporation of gospel and funky blues elements into his solos and compositions. During his tenure with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and the Cannonball Adderley Quintet, he composed the hits “Moanin’,” “This Here,” and “Dat Dere.” Composer, arranger, pianist, and lyricist Billy Strayhorn collaborated with Duke Ellington for nearly three decades. His compositions include such hits as “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Chelsea Bridge,” and “Lush Life.” 

Selections by the Kevin Fort Ensemble 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. Eli Sullivan), “Lush Life” 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. Calvin Simmers), Multicolored Blue 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. Alexander Wallack), Just A-Sittin' and A-Rockin' 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. Evan Steinkoler), Isfahan 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. William Lewis), Lotus Blossom 
Billy Strayhorn (arr. Ikenna Eze), Upper Manhattan Medical Group 

Selections by the Derrick Gardner Ensemble 
Bobby Timmons (arr. Dante Villasenor), Fat Lady 
Bobby Timmons (arr. Jason Zhu), Turkey Wings 
Bobby Timmons (arr. Brandon Harper), Malice Towards None 
Bobby Timmons (arr. Ethan Bouwsma), Trick Hips 
Bobby Timmons (arr. Jack Beckner), So Tired