We went to hear McCoy Tyner last night at Revolution Hall in Portland (Oregon). The 850-seat hall was full, with a few attendees (I imagine PDXJazz volunteers) standing along the walls. Tyner received a standing ovation when he entered the stage and another one when he left.
The great pianist, at 77 years old, played beautifully but not long. Including a couple of numbers by his group without him, the concert was 90 minutes.
I've been listening to McCoy Tyner's music on recordings since his early 1960s work with Coltrane, and I've always thought him one of the most vital and interesting jazz pianists. He's still a wonderful player; however, he looked and sounded (when he spoke) more frail than I had expected. This was a moving reminder that both he and I are getting old. I am grateful to have been able to attend.
Gerald Cannon, bass; Joe Farnsworth (drums); Sherman Irby (alto sax).