Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Reimagines a Classic for International Jazz Day

Orbert Davis o n stage at the Logan Center. Photo courtesy of appreypr.com
Orbert Davis o n stage at the Logan Center. Photo courtesy of appreypr.com

Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Reimagines a Classic for International Jazz Day

Chicago’s deep-rooted jazz legacy takes center stage this spring as the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic prepares to celebrate International Jazz Day with a bold reinterpretation of a timeless classic.

On April 27, audiences will gather at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts for Sketches of Spain: Revisited, an orchestral tribute that reimagines the groundbreaking 1960 collaboration between Miles Davis and Gil Evans. But this is not a recreation—it’s a transformation.

Under the direction of trumpeter and composer Orbert Davis, the performance expands the original work’s boundaries by weaving together jazz, classical, and global influences. The result is a rich, immersive soundscape that draws from Spanish traditions while incorporating African and Middle Eastern instrumentation, offering audiences a fresh and contemporary lens on a historic masterpiece.

“I hope that audiences will be able to identify with the passion and emotion expressed in this work,” Davis said. “There is a story behind the music, and audience members need to interpret that story for themselves.”

The afternoon program begins with the performance of Sketches of Spain: Revisited, followed by Sketches of Miles: The Conversation Continues, a panel discussion exploring the life and legacy of Miles Davis. The discussion will feature Davis alongside acclaimed jazz journalist Mark Ruffin and drummer Vince Wilburn, Davis’s nephew and co-manager of the Miles Davis Estate. The conversation will be moderated by author and 2026 Library of Congress Jazz Scholar Karen Chilton.

The event arrives as Chicago plays a prominent role in this year’s global celebration of jazz. Herbie Hancock, a Chicago native and co-founder of International Jazz Day, reflected on the city’s influence in his own musical journey.

“Jazz opened doors to creativity, self-expression, and freedom,” Hancock said. “I hope that this Day will inspire young artists and audiences in the same way that I was inspired.”

For Davis, revisiting Sketches of Spain is a deeply personal journey. His connection to the piece dates back to the 1990s, when he performed the demanding trumpet role as part of the Chicago Jazz Ensemble. Rather than imitate Miles Davis, he chose to honor the spirit of improvisation—allowing the music to evolve over time. That evolution is now fully realized in this reimagined production, infused with new cultural influences and artistic expression.

Founded in 2004, the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of genre while staying rooted in tradition. Through performances and educational initiatives, the organization continues to use music as a tool for connection, storytelling, and social impact.

As International Jazz Day approaches, Sketches of Spain: Revisited stands as a powerful reminder of jazz’s ability to transcend borders—bringing together cultures, histories, and generations through sound.

Tickets and additional information are available at www.chijazzphil.org.

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