Sun Ra Arkestra

Sun Ra founded the Sun Ra Arkestra in Chicago in the mid-1950’s. Sun Ra
was among the earliest pioneers of the synthesizer and the free jazz
revolution of 1960.

The Sun Ra Arkestra combines big-band swing, space-age jazz, singing,
dancing, chanting and Afro-pageantry. The Arkestra’s live shows feature
13-20 musicians and they have been performing worldwide for more than
60 years.

Maestro Marshall Allen, the avant-garde alto saxophonist, who is 97 years
young – has been leading and directing the Arkestra since 1995. Marshall
has been performing with the Sun Ra Arkestra since the mid-1950’s. In
addition to alto saxophone, he also plays on flute, oboe, and EVI (electronic
valve instrument)

Marshall continues to travel and record with the band. The Arkestra’s 2020
album “Swirling” is nominated for a Grammy Award for best big band jazz
ensemble recording.

The Sun Ra Arkestra 2022 schedule includes a US tour and shows in
Germany, Belgium and the United Kingdom.