A special concert celebrating the centennial birthdays of jazz icons Miles Davis and John Coltrane will take place at the University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium on February 15, 2026. This performance features renowned trumpeter Terence Blanchard and saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, marking a unique moment in jazz that blends history with contemporary interpretation.
The event is part of a limited national tour aimed at reinterpreting the music of Davis and Coltrane, focusing on the evolution of their styles rather than mere recreation. The ensemble includes talented musicians such as guitarist Charles Altura, pianist Julian Pollack, bassist David Ginyard Jr., and drummer Oscar Seaton. Together, they will explore a repertoire that honors the legacy of these two giants while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of jazz forward.
Bridging Generations of Jazz
When Blanchard and Coltrane take the stage, they will transform Hill Auditorium into a crossroads of jazz history. For both artists, this concert represents a culmination of their dedication to innovation within the genre. Blanchard has long regarded Miles Davis as a guiding force in his own musical journey, embracing the spirit of fearlessness and reinvention that characterized Davis’ work. His approach reflects a commitment to viewing jazz not as a fixed canon but as a living, evolving art form.
Coltrane, son of the legendary John Coltrane and Alice Coltrane, has developed his musical identity while honoring his family legacy. His playing is marked by a lyrical quality and a willingness to explore new sonic terrains. He emphasizes that improvisation is a path to discovery rather than a showcase of technical prowess.
The choice of Hill Auditorium as the venue further enhances the significance of this concert. Known for its exceptional acoustics, the auditorium has hosted numerous jazz legends, making it a fitting location for this centennial celebration. The concert is scheduled for 4 p.m. and will consist of a streamlined, 90-minute performance with no intermission.
Transforming the Jazz Landscape
The collaboration between Blanchard and Coltrane aims to reinterpret classic compositions by Davis and Coltrane, drawing from both their iconic recordings and lesser-known works. The artists intend to approach the centennial not as an endpoint but as a reminder of jazz’s ongoing evolution.
As Coltrane noted, this concert is just the beginning of a series of performances throughout the year. “We’re not looking to recreate the past,” he stated. “This is about staying unique and personal in our own approach to the music.” With new arrangements crafted by Blanchard, the performance promises to breathe fresh life into the repertoire of the Miles Davis Quintet from the 1950s.
The concert also serves as a reminder of the continuous evolution of jazz, where the past informs the present but does not dictate it. The reinterpretations will honor signature works that have defined modal jazz, post-bop, and avant-garde styles while allowing room for improvisation that resonates with contemporary audiences.
The concert embodies the belief that true homage in jazz must involve transformation. Blanchard and Coltrane approach their legacies with a commitment to pushing boundaries, recognizing that the most profound tribute is to keep the music moving forward.
As the performance date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a momentous occasion in the jazz calendar. Tickets for the concert start at $20 and are available through the University Musical Society’s website at ums.org. This event not only celebrates the monumental contributions of Miles Davis and John Coltrane but also highlights the importance of innovation and personal expression in jazz today.