Cal Tjader became one of the most popular and influential bandleaders in Latin jazz history, easily ranking as the idiom’s greatest non-Latino performer. Though he began as a drummer with Dave Brubeck and was also quite proficient on bongos, congas and piano, Tjader made his musical mark on vibes. While playing with George Shearing in the early ’50s, bassist Al McKibbon and Shearing introduced Tjader to the Latin sound. He got hooked after seeing the great big bands of Machito and Chico O’Farrill in New York, and engaging in jam sessions with Willie Bobo and Mongo Santamaria. From the mid-’50s until his death in the early ’80s, Tjader led a host of superb small and large bands. His groups mostly played fiery and exciting Latin jazz, with an occasional foray into other areas — like fusion, and even a session blending Latin and Asian elements. Versatile Nashville music educator, bandleader and vibist James Westfall, who like Tjader is also a fine keyboardist and percussionist, will be highlighting Tjader’s music and detailing his impact and importance at the latest rendition of the Frist’s Jazz on the Move series. RON WYNN
Jazz on the Move: Cal Tjader
