The violinist Leroy Jenkins, a leading figure of the ’60s avant-garde, has passed away at age 74. I had the pleasure of seeing him perform solo at Dewey Redman’s memorial a few weeks ago, when I was just beginning research on an Anthony Braxton feature for the May ’07 Jazz Times. Jenkins, a Braxton colleague from way back, walked right by me when I was in the midst of another conversation. I thought about catching his attention and maybe asking a question or two, but I didn’t.
In 2004, with bassist Sirone and drummer Jerome Cooper, Jenkins reconvened the long-dormant Revolutionary Ensemble. My review of their gig at Joe’s Pub is here.
[Update: Destination Out’s tribute is here.]
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