MUSIC

The Heath Brothers—saxophonist Jimmy, drummer Albert (better known as “Tootie”), and the late bassist Percy—are without question one of the most influential families in jazz. As a young bebop alto player in the 1940s, Jimmy was nicknamed “Little Bird,” but this flattering comparison to Charlie Parker doesn’t do justice to the innovative and unique style Jimmy has developed during his career. Now primarily a tenor player, he has built upon the innovations of the bebop pioneers and carried them into the modern era with style and originality. Jimmy was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2003. Drummer Tootie has recorded and performed with a who’s-who of jazz giants, including John Coltrane, Wes Montgomery, and Herbie Hancock. Recently, Tootie has expanded the role of the jazz drummer with his unique “Whole Drum Truth” project, in which he performs with an ensemble made up entirely of great jazz percussionists. Although no bassist can fill the shoes of Percy, who passed on in 2005 at age 81, David Wong is an up-and-coming young player who has absorbed a great deal of jazz wisdom, playing with artists like Roy Haynes and Wynton Marsalis. With his sensitive accompaniment and swinging energy, Jeb Patton is the Heath Brothers’ pianist of choice.