Lew Tabackin Trio

Lew Tabackin is one of those rare musicians who has built two completely distinct artistic personalities on two instruments. On tenor saxophone, his playing is forceful and hard-driving — rooted in the tradition of Coleman Hawkins and Ben Webster, marked by wide intervals, abrupt shifts in mood, and an unmistakable sense of conviction. On flute, he transforms entirely — virtuosic, delicate, and deeply informed by the classical tradition and the music of Asia. Critic Scott Yanow put it simply: Tabackin is “one of the few jazz musicians who has been able to develop completely different musical personalities on two instruments.”

Born in Philadelphia, Tabackin studied at the Philadelphia Conservatory of Music before making his way through the New York scene, working alongside Elvin Jones, Donald Byrd, Tal Farlow, and Chuck Israels. He later served as the principal soloist in the celebrated Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra for three decades, one of the most acclaimed large ensembles in jazz history. He has also been associated with George Wein’s Newport All-Star Band, the New York Jazz Giants, and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band. In smaller settings, his trio recordings have drawn praise for their freedom, intimacy, and the depth of conversation between the players.

At 85 years old, Tabackin remains one of the most compelling live performers in jazz — this is a rare opportunity to hear a true master up close.

The Side Door Jazz Club is a dedicated jazz listening room located inside the historic Old Lyme Inn, 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT. Tickets are reserved seating. Guests dining at the Old Lyme Inn restaurant prior to the show receive 10% off their dinner bill.