Miles Davis & John Coltrane at 100

The lecture series will be led by Seth Kibel and will be held on Tuesdays, November 3 and 10, 2026 from 9:45am-Noon each day (there will be a short break). Participants only need to reserve a spot for Nov 3rd and you are welcome to come to one or both dates.

2026 marked the centenaries of two of the most important musicians in jazz history – Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Miles Davis, who would’ve turned 100 on May 26 of this year, was an exercise in contradiction: he projected a cold, harsh exterior, yet had the musical soul of a romantic. A profane and sometimes violent human being who created some of the most tender and sensitive music of the 20th century. A musician who consistently broke new musical ground throughout his career.

John Coltrane, who would be celebrating his 100th birthday on September 23, was more than just a saxophonist and composer. He was arguably the greatest influence on jazz worldwide in the second half of the 20th century. While springing from bebop, Coltrane broke new ground in modal jazz, free jazz, and the avant-garde. We’ll examine the lives, careers, and oeuvres of these two titans of jazz. Recordings, videos, and live performances from the instructor will keep these presentations swingin’!

This series is made possible through the Bel Air Arts and Entertainment District with a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council.