Rufus Reid, one of today’s premiere bassists on the international jazz scene, with his reputation firmly established in the education arena, now adds composition to his vitae. Rufus participated in the BMI Jazz Composer’s Workshop for five years which has empowered him to move more deeply into the composing arena. He has written for string orchestra, jazz ensembles large and small, concert band, double bass ensemble pieces and a solo bass composition.

Reid will pay tribute to the great Ray Brown, a Pittsburgh native who is widely considered the father of modern bass playing. Reid’s performances will be comprised of three distinct acts, the first of which will open with a solo bass number, followed by a composition written for three basses. The first act will close with a song written by Dr. John Wilson, which was originally composed for and performed by an all-bass quintet at Milt Hinton’s memorial service.

Reid’s second act will showcase his trio-piano, bass, and drums-and will include songs arranged to pay tribute to Brown. For the third act, Rufus Reid will be joined onstage by the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra where they will debut a new composition written in honor of Ray Brown.