Leroy Jenkins (March 11, 1932 – February 24, 2007) was an innovative American composer and violinist recognized for his pioneering work in avant-garde jazz and free improvisation. Jenkins hailed from Chicago, Illinois, and began his notable career as a classical musician before becoming a central figure in the creative music movement that intersected jazz, classical, and world music. As a founding member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), Jenkins was crucial in fostering an environment that encouraged experimental compositions and performances, challenging the boundaries of jazz music.

Throughout his career, Jenkins displayed a formidable blend of technical skill and improvisational bravery. Notable works such as "Unknown Unknowns" and "Lifelong Ambitions" showcase his penchant for crafting deeply expressive and unconventional soundscapes, which defied easy categorization. His album "Leroy Jenkins: Themes and Improvisations on the Blues" reflected his adeptness at reinterpreting the blues idiom through an avant-garde lens. Jenkins' influence extended well beyond his instrument, with ambitious pieces like "Space Minds, New Worlds, Survival of America" and "The Legend Of Ai Glatson" illustrating his wide-ranging musical vision that has inspired countless musicians. Jenkins' presence at live performances was immortalized in the recording "Leroy Jenkins Live!", capturing the spontaneity and emotional intensity that characterized his career. He continued to push creative boundaries and contributed to music until his passing in 2007, leaving behind a legacy as a fearless innovator and a beacon for future generations of musicians.

Genres

Avant-garde Jazz

Jazz Violin

Latest Release

Unknown Unknowns

Leroy Jenkins

Album - 10 Tracks - Released July 22, 2018