
Celebrate the centennials of two legendary jazz icons—Miles Davis and John Coltrane—in 2026 with a special concert by the Turtle Island Quartet. From the quartet’s early days, they have drawn inspiration from these timeless artists, and to honor their 100th birthdays, they present a groundbreaking evening of music.
Led by David Balakrishnan, the quartet performs their GRAMMY award-winning interpretations of Davis and Coltrane’s masterpieces, alongside works that both honor and explore these icons’ legacies. Shades of Blue presents a fresh, dynamic perspective on these jazz giants. In Island Prayers, Balakrishnan channels the spiritual essence of Coltrane’s A Love Supreme, crafting a personal and introspective mantra. Meanwhile, Rebirth of the Holy Fool playfully revisits the cool, innovative sounds of Davis’ Birth of the Cool.
This program offers a unique blend—a tribute to the roots of jazz and a celebration of Turtle Island Quartet’s evolution, showcasing the inventive compositions of David Balakrishnan. A captivating fusion of tradition and innovation, this performance redefines what it means to honor the icons of jazz while forging a bold, new musical path.