Mike Reed’s Chicago Inspirations

May 1, 2026
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Overview

The Magic Box: Music inspired by the Chicago bassist Fred Hopkins
Drummer-composer Mike Reed explores the legacy of Chicago bassist and AACM member Fred Hopkins with new works, including a commission by Henry Threadgill. Performed by a powerhouse ensemble of fellow Chicago improvisers, the program reflects Hopkins’ deep influence on avant-garde jazz.

The City Was Yellow: Chicago Jazz & Improvised Music 1980-2010
Saxophonist Geof Bradfield and talented high-school jazz musicians open the concert with Reed’s collection of music composed in Chicago between 1980 and 2010, a transformative era of risk-taking within the city’s jazz scene.

Curated by Mike Reed, Owner and Director, Chicago’s Constellation and Hungry Brain

Schedule
Performers
Drums, guest curator
Alto saxophone
Bassist-composer
Vibraphone
Students from the Jazz Institute of Chicago Jazz Links Program
Saxophone and musical director

The City Was Yellow
Students from the Jazz Institute of Chicago Jazz Links Program
Geof Bradfield saxophone and musical director

 

The Magic Box
Mike Reed drums, guest curator
Nicole Mitchell flute
Tomeka Reid cello
Greg Ward alto saxophone
Joshua Abrams bass
Jason Adasiewicz vibraphone