Patrick Wolff all-star quartet with Edward Simon, Marcos Varela, and Jerome Gillespie

Saxophonist Patrick Wolff leads an all-star quartet featuring some of the most accomplished musicians in contemporary jazz. Known for his lyrical approach and embrace of jazz's full lineage, Wolff brings together Venezuelan pianist and Guggenheim Fellow Edward Simon, master bassist Marcos Varela, and drummer Jerome Gillespie Jr. for an evening of sophisticated post-bop and contemporary jazz.

Wolff, who splits his time between New York and San Francisco, has worked with jazz luminaries including Albert "Tootie" Heath, Matt Wilson, and Louis Moholo-Moholo. His playing is characterized by a focus on lyricism and deep respect for jazz tradition, whether exploring obscure B-side tunes or pushing the boundaries of post-bop. As both performer and educator at institutions like the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Wolff brings both technical mastery and thoughtful interpretation to his music.

Edward Simon, a longtime member of the SFJAZZ Collective, is renowned for weaving Latin American, Caribbean, and West African influences into modern jazz. His compositions and piano work have earned multiple spots on the New York Times' Top Ten Jazz Records of the Year list. Bassist Marcos Varela brings extensive experience from collaborations with Billy Hart, The Mingus Big Band, and Jason Moran, while Jerome Gillespie Jr. contributes his deep-rooted yet forward-moving sound that blends church traditions with hard bop fire.

Expect an evening of sophisticated interplay between four master musicians, each bringing their distinct voice to create music that honors jazz tradition while exploring contemporary possibilities. The quartet's repertoire spans from original compositions to reimagined standards, delivered with the kind of musical conversation that only happens when seasoned professionals share the stage.