Front Row: Jazz

Saxophone Summit: The original summiteers were Joe Lovano, Dave Liebman, and the late Michael Brecker. Since Brecker's passing, Ravi Coltrane has joined the unit, helping push it ever further in adventurous directions. Sept. 24-25, Regattabar. 617-395-7757, www.regattabarjazz.com

Randy Weston: At 82, Weston is the foremost authority on the piano's percussive possibilities; his work manifests both Eastern rhythmic sensibilities and the abstract geometries of Thelonious Monk. Sept. 27, BeanTown Jazz Festival. 617-747-2261, www.beantownjazz.org

John Coltrane Memorial Concert: This tribute boasts a superb ensemble of local Coltrane devotees plus terrific guests. This year they host hip-hop luminary Guru and his Jazzmatazz crossover project. Sept. 27, Blackman Theatre, Northeastern University. 617-373-4700, www.jcmc.neu.edu

Dee Dee Bridgewater: On last year's "Red Earth: A Malian Journey," acclaimed singer Bridgewater took the rediscovery of black music's African roots to a high level, bringing her working band to Mali to record with some of the finest local musicians. Now she presents the project live. Oct. 3-4, Regattabar. 617-395-7757, www.regattabarjazz.com

Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, Jack DeJohnette: The incomparably crystalline pianist Jarrett led this trio 25 years ago in a celebrated Carnegie Hall show. They reunite this fall for just two jubilee performances - one at Carnegie, the other here. Oct. 26, Symphony Hall. 617-266-1492, www.bso.org

Brian Blade: Louisiana-raised drummer Blade cites John Coltrane and Joni Mitchell as prime influences. His electro-acoustic Fellowship Band, with Kurt Rosenwinkel on guitar, forges from these and other eclectic energies a moving, unique synthesis, with the focus and freedom of meditation. Nov. 6, Scullers. 617-562-4111, www.scullersjazz.com

SIDDHARTHA MITTER