Sonny Rollins
The fest finally scores a prime slot in the acoustic paradise of the Pritzker Pavilion and makes the most of it, with a blockbuster opening night featuring a true living legend. Aug 28 at 6:30. Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan and Randolph.
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Nostalgic tributes abound at the CJF, but the hugely talented Bridgewater’s paean to Betty Carter will likely look forward as well as back. Aug 29 at 7:10. Petrillo Music Shell, Jackson and Columbus.
Vijay Iyer Quintet
One of the most restlessly inventive young pianists around, Iyer rarely settles for the predictable in his complex, rhythmic compositions. Aug 30 at 6. Petrillo Music Shell.
Dave Douglas and Brass Ecstasy
The chameleon-like trumpeter could swing through town ten times a year and never play with the same group twice. Here he convenes his brass-and-drums quintet to debut a newly commissioned piece. Aug 30 at 7:10. Petrillo Music Shell.
Ornette Coleman
The iconic innovator, who remains as vital and probing as ever, closes the fest in a town that has long embraced and expanded upon his bold free-jazz blueprint. Aug 31 at 8:30. Petrillo Music Shell.
Aug 28-31. Free. Grant Park. Full schedule: chicagojazzfestival.us.