Upswing: Sullivan Fortner

Grammy-winning pianist Sullivan Fortner makes his Miner Auditorium debut as a bandleader with his exquisitely calibrated trio as part of SFJAZZ's Upswing series. The New Orleans piano maestro brings bassist Tyrone Allen and drummer Kayvon Gordon for an evening that seamlessly traverses more than a century of American music with what SFJAZZ describes as a "supple, celebratory Crescent City sensibility."

Fortner has evolved far beyond his early reputation as a neo-traditionalist to become what one reviewer calls "inventive" and "a prophet of swing." His trio operates without sheet music or rehearsals—Fortner teaches everything by ear, creating what bassist Allen describes as music "you have to digest completely." This approach produces performances that feel both spontaneous and deeply studied.

Expect an evening of rhythmic exploration where texture and groove take center stage alongside melody. Recent performances show Fortner taking an increasingly aggressive, percussive approach to the piano—what he calls "the box"—while maintaining his gift for harmonic sophistication and compositional maturity. His trio is known for surprises: fake-out endings that keep audiences on their toes, unexpected tempo shifts, and Fortner's sense of humor threading through the music.

The repertoire spans jazz standards reimagined with modern sensibilities, original compositions, and occasionally classical works adapted for the trio format. Fortner draws from his New Orleans roots while incorporating influences from bebop masters like Bud Powell and stride pioneers like Willie "The Lion" Smith. His latest Grammy-winning album "Southern Nights" pays tribute to New Orleans producer Allen Toussaint while showcasing his ability to blend Cuban rhythms with contemporary jazz.

Fortner's collaborations with Roy Hargrove, Cécile McLorin Salvant, and others have established him as one of the most accomplished pianists of his generation. At 39, he's reached what one peer calls "anointed" status—universally revered among musicians for his technique, touch, and ability to transform every tune into "the essence of jazz." This performance, originally filmed in April as part of SFJAZZ's streaming series, captures the trio at the height of their collaborative powers.