Jazz Break at Noon - February 2026

Feb 9 - 13

Slide Innovation: The Music of J.J. Johnson
This week on The Jazz Break at Noon, we spotlight one of the true titans of the bebop era and an innovator who single-handedly redefined the role of his instrument in modern jazz: trombonist, bandleader, and composer J.J. Johnson (1924-2001). Just as Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker, and Max Roach revolutionized their respective instruments, Johnson transformed the trombone. He liberated it from its traditional role, proving it could navigate the lightning-fast tempos and complex harmonies of bebop with the agility of a saxophone. His spirited technique and compositional genius produced enduring jazz standards like "Wee Dot," "Lament," and "Enigma."

Our sonic journey will trace Johnson's most creative and influential periods. We'll begin with his earliest appearances in the 1940s, including his breakout performance at the 1944 Jazz at the Philharmonic and his first singles for Savoy, capturing his transition from the Swing Era to the forefront of Bebop. We’ll explore his definitive recordings for Blue Note, Prestige, Columbia, and Impulse! Records, celebrating a career that set the standard for all modern trombonists. Join us for a week of slide innovation with J.J. Johnson.