On Thursday, the Chicago Jazz Festival will continue its tradition of celebrating the late saxophonist Von Freeman and his illustrious musical family. Marking the beloved saxophonist’s centennial — he would have turned 100 on Oct. 3 — his tenor-playing son Chico Freeman will lead a band of friends and family including Von’s brother and his uncle, guitarist George Freeman, still going strong at 96.
For the man called Vonski, an unjustly obscure artist for much of his career, even in his hometown, the tributes are richly deserved. But it’s also great seeing the 74-year-old Chico back in the spotlight in the place he grew up following last year’s premiere in Hyde Park of his ambitious Legacy Project. A sweeping work for 19-piece orchestra, the work honored his entire family, including his other uncle, the late drummer Bruz Freeman.
