Joe Lovano with Guests

A true dream band: the artistic cast selected especially for Bergamo Jazz 2026 by Joe Lovano, artistic director of the Festival since 2024, but above all an illustrious musician, to pay tribute to John Coltrane and Miles Davis on the centenary of their birth, cannot be defined otherwise. A selection that is based on expressive affinities, long artistic acquaintances, and great mutual esteem. 
On trumpet is the Israeli Avishai Cohen, one of the leading names in the ECM catalogue, a highly refined soloist and poetically Miles' son. On tenor sax, in addition to Lovano himself, we find another authority on the instrument, George Garzone, one of the most profound connoisseurs of Coltrane, from whom he has taken much in the way of his own. Another saxophonist, but on this occasion with various types of flutes, is also present: the British Shabaka Hutchings, one of the strongest personalities of the new jazz, already a guest of Bergamo Jazz on two occasions, in 2016, as a member of the group of South African drummer Louis Moholo-Moholo, and in 2023, special guest of Hamid Drake's project dedicated to Alice Coltrane. New to the Donizetti stage is Argentinian pianist Leo Genovese, rising star of the 88 keys, who has already distinguished himself alongside Wayne Shorter, among others. The Danish Jakob Bro takes up the guitar, with a refined but incisive style. Finally, double bass and drums, Drew Gress and Joey Baron, one of the best rhythm sections imaginable today.
What will happen on the Donizetti stage? Different combinations, from duets to larger ensembles to collective moments of great impact. One thing is certain: Trane and Miles will be paid tribute by all with great emotional transport.

Program and cast

Joe Lovano tenor and soprano sax
Avishai Cohen trumpet
George Garzone tenor sax
Shabaka Hutchings flutes
Jakob Bro guitar
Leo Genovese piano
Drew Gress double bass
Joey Baron drums