Trombonist Melba Liston (1926–1999) was the first woman to be regularly featured as a player, composer, and arranger in a major jazz orchestra. Her work with the bands of Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and Quincy Jones marked a significant breakthrough in gender representation within large ensembles. Beyond her performing career, Liston became a highly sought-after composer and arranger, contributing sophisticated, enduring works to the jazz repertoire.

Her groundbreaking work helped establish a lasting presence for women in jazz performance, orchestration and composition, contributing to the evolving landscape in which artists such as Maria Schneider, Ingrid Jensen, Camille Thurman, Geri Allen, Alexa Tarantino, and many others have built significant and influential careers.

This presentation and concert, led by bassist Allison Lee, will examine both the obstacles she confronted and the musical legacy she established.

Allison Lee – bass/musical director
Grace Rock – trombone
Maxwell Holmes – piano
Oscar Evely – drums