Evanston-based young jazz violinist Diane Delin created quite an unexpected stir at last summer’s Grant Park Jazz Festival with her solid technique and crisp improvisations. Delin has avoided the more avant-garde and fusion-oriented jazz violin sound so popular in recent years for a return to a more lyrical style emphasizing beautiful tone, but with such style, originality, and good taste that it is quite a refreshing change. Delin is also a master of improvisation, but unlike many young players, she allows each musical idea to be fully developed and taken to a natural conclusion. Delin’s setting is a traditional jazz quartet of piano, bass, and drums, which perfectly offsets her straight-ahead approach. Delin’s Monday appearance is part of the jazz fair sponsored by the Jazz Institute of Chicago, which, in addition to jazz movies, recordings, and discussions, will feature five other performers throughout the evening (Delin is scheduled to perform first). Saturday, Moosehead Bar & Grill, 163 W. Harrison; 922-3640. Monday, 6 PM, Blackstone Hotel, 636 S. Michigan; 427-1676 or 666-1881.
Art accompanying story in printed newspaper (not available in this archive): photo/Sue Martens.