Where New Music
Comes Alive
Be there—where exceptional regional musicians and nationally recognized artists share the stage to create the kind of magic that transforms, connects and inspires.
September 19-23, 2026
Celebrate 100 years of the legacy, music and life of John Coltrane
Few artists have shaped the arc of jazz more profoundly than John Coltrane. As the world marks the centennial of his birth, we celebrate his life, music, and enduring legacy with Giant Steps. Join us for four days of performances, education, and community conversation that bring Coltrane’s spirit alive.
September 23, 2026
Equinox: Big Band Tribute to John Coltrane
Featuring The Constellations Orchestra led by Will Boyd, arranged and co-conducted by Joseph Herbst with spoken word by Kevin Evans
As the jazz world marks the centennial of John Coltrane’s birth on this autumnal equinox, The Constellation Orchestra will traverse Coltrane’s journey from bebop innovation to spiritual transcendence in an unforgettable big band tribute. Under the direction of Will Boyd, the 17-piece jazz orchestra will perform new arrangements and original works inspired by Coltrane’s life, crafted by Joseph Herbst, nationally recognized composer-arranger with Asheville roots. Woven throughout the evening, spoken word by poet Kevin Evans draws from Coltrane’s own interviews and writings — revealing the beliefs, philosophy, and spiritual vision behind the music.
Reserved Seating Only, $50/Table Seat, $200/Full Table or $30/Single Chair
6:00 – 6:30 PM Pre-concert talk moderated by Dr. Bill Bares
7:00 – 9:00 PM Tribute performance
Explore other Giant Steps events:
September 19, 2026
Coltrane Educational Clinic
Exploring John Coltrane’s Music and Styles: An Educational Clinic for High School Jazz Musicians
Explore the music of John Coltrane through an immersive workshop, led by saxophonist Will Boyd. Participating high school musicians will work on tunes from Impressions to Giant Steps and practice concepts pioneered by Coltrane such as Sheets of Sound, Coltrane changes, and modal exploration.
All high school skill levels are welcome. Advance registration required. $15 registration fee.
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Experience the timeless music of John Coltrane through the soulful artistry of Will Boyd. Soultrane celebrates the passion, innovation, and spiritual depth of one of jazz’s greatest voices, featuring classic Coltrane compositions as well as inspired ones. Join Will for an unforgettable evening of powerful melodies, swinging rhythms, and the enduring spirit of jazz.
7:00 – 10:00 PM
Free Admission
September 22, 2026
Interstellar Space
Performed by Jeff Arnal and Steve Alford
Stripped to its raw essentials — saxophone and drums alone — Coltrane’s Interstellar Space remains one of jazz’s most daring statements. Saxophonist Steve Alford, of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and drummer Jeff Arnal, of the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center, bring it to life in an intimate free performance, followed by a Q&A with two artists who know this music from the inside out.
7:00 PM
December 23, 2026
The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas
Performed by Dr. Bill Bares and The Constellations Orchestra
Experience the magic of the holidays with the iconic melodies of Vince Guaraldi that capture the nostalgic spirit of the season and where holiday tradition meets musical innovation.
Matinee: 3:00 PM | Evening: 7:00 PM
