Music and science aren’t the most natural combination, or so you might believe. An ongoing collaboration between Stephon Alexander, a theoretical physicist at Brown University, and Donald Harrison, NEA Jazz Master and New Orleans-based saxophonist, is exploring the parallels between quantum physics and jazz—specifically comparing how physicists develop new theories to jazz improvisation.
Donald Harrison began exploring this connection between quantum physics and music over 20 years ago. “As a musician reading theories, I see how we use some of the same principles behind quantum theories while producing music,” Harrison says. “When I started looking at that more, it opened up infinite possibilities musically and revealed the music that naturally exists in the universe.” Harrison created three influential styles of jazz and has been a mentor to a range of diverse artists from The Notorious B.I.G. to Jon Batiste, Chief Xian aTunde Adjuahto (formerly known as Christian Scott) to Trombone Shorty, and more.
“The mysterious way that quantum particles move and traverse all possible paths is similar to how skilled musicians consider many possible notes that could be compatible with the melodic line,” Alexander adds. “Intuition is the lifeblood of both jazz and physics.” Alexander is a musician as well as a professor of physics at Brown University, previously performing and collaborating with Will Calhoun, Brian Eno, Marc Cary, and more.
These two pioneers will preface their hour-long performance with a conversation on the physics of jazz. Joining the two for the concert is composer and bassist Santi Debriano, a prominent New York-based jazz musician. Also on the lineup is Zaccai Curtis, pianist, composer, and music professor, and Brian Richburg Jr., drummer, producer, teacher, and bandleader.
Don’t worry about the physics prerequisites, though. “You don’t have to understand quantum physics to appreciate this event,” says Eric Ward, vice president for public programs at the Linda Hall Library. “The program will give you new insights into music while entertaining you with some of the best jazz you’ve ever heard.”
“The Jazz of Physics: Quantum Improvisation” is free and open to the public, though seating is limited. Pre-registration is required. June 22 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Folly Theater. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.