Duke Jazz Ensemble with Ali Jackson, percussionist

"... Ali Jackson generates a subtle but irresistible force when he plays, making even the smallest gestures advance his agenda of locomotion." (Nate Chinen, New York Times). Multitalented composer, arranger, music educator, and jazz percussionist Ali Jackson is considered to be one of the most versatile and innovative musicians of our times. From performance stages in the U.S., to historic concert halls in Europe, and outdoor venues in Canada, Asia, or Africa, he has gained a reputation of performing with remarkable technique, originality, and deeply felt passion. For many years, he has been Principal Drum Chair with the internationally recognized Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. Jackson's discography and performance archive include Wynton Marsalis, Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, Faith Hill, James Morrison, Dee Dee Bridgewater, George Benson, Harry Connick Jr. Marcus Roberts, Joshua Redman, Seito Kinen Orchestra conductor Seiji Ozawa, New York Philharmonic, London Philharmonic Orchestra, and the New York City Ballet, among others. Beyond the performance stage, Jackson takes a leading role in advocating arts and musical education. He has given lectures on jazz and culture at New York University, Stanford University, Eastman College of Music, Columbia University, and others, as well as participated in the "Jazz in the Schools" program facilitated by Jazz at Lincoln Center.