“A towering pillar of a new-music universe he has worked tirelessly to foster and enrich.” —New York Times

Maverick American force of nature, John Zorn combines jazz, rock,
experimental, folk, and classical traditions in a way that no musician before him had. His DIY ethos, irreverent independence, mind-boggling energy, and passionate leadership of an entire community of free-thinking music-makers has made Zorn not only one of the most compelling artistic figures of our time, but one of the most profoundly influential.

Zorn turns 60 and brings his birthday party to the Walker—in the form of three killer gigs in one unforgettable night with the protean composer/musician/producer. This marathon of fresh composition and brilliant improvisation—the likes of which will be seen nowhere else outside of New York City—features six of his bands and a host of celebrated musicians, including John Medeski (piano); Erik Friedlander (cello); Mark Ribot (guitar); Cyro Baptista (percussion); Joey Baron (drums); Greg Cohen (bass); Mark Feldman (violin); Kenny Wollesen (vibraphones); Ikue Mori (electronics); Zorn (conductor, pipe organ); and Twin Cities’ own Michelle Kinney (cello); Chris Cunningham (guitar); and Joey Schad, (keyboards).

Gather by D’Amico

During the music marathon, the Walker’s Gather by D’Amico restaurant and bar offers special expanded hours: lunch, 11:30 am–2:30 pm; dinner, 5–9 pm; full bar, 11:30 am–10 pm.

Zorn @ 60 Program Schedule

A Conversation with John Zorn

3 pm

John Zorn and Walker senior curator Philip Bither kick-start the marathon with a free conversation in the Walker Cinema.

Program I: Game Pieces

4 pm

• The Book of Heads (Marc Ribot Solo)/Hockey/Cobra

Program II: Masada

7 pm

• Erik Friedlander Solo/Masada String Trio/Bar Kokhba

Program III: New Projects

10 pm

• Nova Express/The Concealed

The Hermetic Organ

12 midnight

To end the day of celebration, Zorn presents The Hermetic Organ, a free midnight solo organ concert across the street from the Walker at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, 519 Oak Grove St, Minneapolis.