Four Dimensions of Torch Passing

REVIEW: Joys of Jazz @ Two River Theater

Sunday, December 14, 2025,

Jon Faddis, The Next Gen Quartet, & the Jazz Arts Academy Student Showcase

The December “Joys of Jazz” concert, held at Two River Theater, featured venerate jazz legend Jon Faddis, his own group “The Next Gen Quartet”, two college-age student guest performers, and the high school age students of the Jazz Arts Academy. 

The event provided the full house of patrons with a remarkable showcase of musical virtuosity, innovation, inspiration, and tradition. The concert, subtitled “A Legends and Lions Event”, exemplified the passing of the torch from jazz masters to the next generation of musicians, creating a dynamic and engaging evening filled with captivating performances. The evening actually outlined a kind of three or even four-dimensional torch passing: masters & apprentice, teachers & students, legends & lions. In this case, a true jazz master, to the next generation of professional musicians, to current college students, and finally to high school music students.

After a welcome message delivered by Jazz Radio, WBGO host Mark Farrell, the Faddis group took to the stage and delivered a stellar performance, showcasing their world-class expertise and musical prowess. As a part of his group, which he refers to as the “Next Gen Quartet”, includes Guitarist Andrew Latona, Bassist Kayla Chee, and Drummer Chris Latona. These musicians represent former students of Faddis, either from his position at Purchase College SUNY or Manhattan School of Music, who have forged a career for themselves, already making waves as the next generation of jazz professionals. Faddis also introduced the addition of two special guests, college students Kal Ferretti on Trumpet and Marty Scott on Trombone.  From the very first few notes of Duke Ellington's classic "Caravan," the group proved its great creativity and skill. Faddis's mastery of the trumpet was on full display, as he effortlessly navigated intricate melodies and led the ensemble with precision and flair.  Each of the musicians took turns on solos and effortlessly came back together for clever and masterful ensemble sections. 

After a few tunes, it was time to introduce the students of the Jazz Arts Academy. They walked out onto the stage and filled out an entire jazz orchestra setting of empty chairs and stands. You could feel the apprehension among the students and audience alike. What could happen next? Education Director Kiki Rausch, Coordinator Zach Loreli, and Instructor Anthony Ware addressed the audience and began the next phase of the concert.  It was announced that the overall theme of this Fall Semester of the Academy was honoring the music of Duke Ellington. The first tune, therefore —with a nod to the holiday season— Ellington's unique and swinging arrangement of Jingle Bells got everyone's toes tapping immediately. Trombone student Alex McMillan and then Austin Mark on Alto adeptly handled the melody and the solos with the ensemble swinging hard behind them.

As the concert unfolded, the students were joined by Jon Faddis, the other professionals, and the college students. They presented a joint collaborative effort, adding fresh energy and perspective to the performances. With tunes like "I Got It Bad," "Perdido," and "Tell Me It's the Truth," the students demonstrated their talent and passion for jazz, impressing the audience with creativity and improvisational skills. Each student got a chance to solo and improvise, encouraged and guided by the three generations of musicians before them. The interplay between the Faddis group and the students created a rich tapestry of sound, showcasing the continuity of jazz education and mentorship in the genre.

On the tune “The Mooche,” which is considered to be one of Ellington's early signature pieces, Jazz Arts Founder Joe Muccioli stood out front and conducted his own arrangement that he explained was patterned after Dizzy Gillespie’s version of the song. Dizzy was the lifelong mentor of Jon Faddis, who was featured on this, along with many of the other musicians on stage, students and pros alike.

The concert culminated in a rousing finale that featured an original blues composition by Jazz Arts Founder Joe Muccioli, highlighting the collaborative spirit and camaraderie between the seasoned professionals and the aspiring young musicians. The audience erupted into a standing ovation, honoring the dedication and talent displayed on stage throughout the evening.

In conclusion, this Joys of Jazz concert was a memorable and inspiring celebration of jazz as a living art form, with Jon Faddis and the Jazz Arts Academy students exemplifying the enduring legacy and vitality of the genre. Through their impeccable performances and collaborative spirit, the concert reaffirmed the importance of mentorship and education in preserving the rich tradition of jazz for generations to come.