This extraordinary line-up of his long-time collaborators includes esperanza spalding on vocals, Danilo Pérez on piano, John Patitucci on bass and Terri Lyne Carrington on drums with Ravi Coltrane on saxophone.

Performing alongside the Philharmonia with conductor Clark Rundell, this all-star ensemble performs Shorter’s symphonic works including the esteemed and rarely performed Gaia.

The career of the saxophonist, bandleader and composer spanned seven decades. He performed with Miles Davies, Joni Mitchell and Carlos Santana, and co-founded the jazz fusion band Weather Report.

He formed his own quartet in 2000, recorded over 20 albums and won 12 Grammys. His 2021 opera … (Iphigenia) has never been heard outside the US.

The title of ‘the 21st century’s jazz genius’ (NPR) goes to bassist, singer, songwriter and teacher esperanza spalding. She collaborated with Shorter on both …(Iphigenia) and Gaia, a 2013 commission from the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Named for the Greek goddess of the Earth, Gaia is a song cycle richly laden with environmental imagery. Shorter’s writing evokes elemental forces, while spalding’s radiant vocals soar between earth and sky.

Between these two landmark works, the Philharmonia Orchestra performs a selection from Wayne Shorter’s unrivalled songbook.

This concert is a highlight of the Philharmonia Orchestra’s series Let Freedom Ring and the EFG London Jazz Festival.