Gerald Wilson

The release is actually broken into two parts. The first 6 tracks of the disc are a respectful musical acknowledgement of the work of classical composers Stravinsky and Puccini, two of Wilson's favorites. Wilson's grandson Eric Otis contributes an original " September Sky" and his son Anthony Wilson contributes "Virgo" both stellar works and help propel this record to a level of musical superiority that is rare.

The last 6 tracks are "Yes Chicago Is..." An affectionate series of sketches where Wilson more than captures the musical sound and impressions of one of the greatest cities in the world.

Personnel:

GERALD WILSON, conductor

RHYTHM SECTION:
Lewis Nash, drums
Renee Rosnes, piano
Peter Washington, bass
Anthony Wilson, guitar

SAXOPHONES:
Antonio Hart, alto sax, flute
Dick Oatts, añto sax, flute
Kamasi Washington, tenor sax
Ron Balke, tenor sax
JayBrandford, baritone sax
Gary Smulyan, baritone sax

TRUMPETS & FLUGELHORN:
Frank Greene
Sean Jones
Tony Lujan
Freddie Hendrix
Jeremy Pelt
Mike Rodriguez

Trombones:
Dennis Wilson
Luis Bonilla
Alan Ferber
Douglas Purviance, bass trombone

Recorded at Avatar Studios, New York 2010.

Tracks:

01. Variation On A Theme By Igor Stravinsky
02. Virgo
03. Variations On A Clair de Lune
04. Variation On A Theme by Giacomo Puccini
05. September Sky

YES, CHICAGO IS ... (SUITE)

06. A Jazz Mecca
07. A Night At The El Grotto
08. Riffin' At The Regal
09. Cubs, Bears, Bulls, and White Sox
10. 47th St, Blues
11. Blowin' In The Windy City
12. A Great Place to Be