Christian McBride, Benny Green and Gregory Hutchinson

An Evening with Jazz Titans: Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson

Prepare for an extraordinary night of musical brilliance as three of the most celebrated figures in contemporary jazz unite on the stage of TivoliVredenburg in Utrecht. On Wednesday, 12 November 2025, immerse yourself in the electrifying synergy of Christian McBride on bass, Benny Green on piano, and Gregory Hutchinson on drums. This is not just a concert; it’s a masterclass in improvisation, a testament to decades of musical dialogue, and an unforgettable journey through the heart of jazz. Witnessing these virtuosos perform together is a rare and cherished opportunity, promising an evening of unparalleled artistry, spontaneous invention, and profound musical connection that will resonate long after the final note fades.

The Masters of Modern Jazz: McBride, Green, and Hutchinson

Christian McBride stands as one of the most respected and influential bassists of his generation. A Grammy Award-winning artist with an astonishing discography spanning over 300 recordings, McBride’s sonic palette is as vast as it is rich. From his early days as a prodigy, he has graced the stages and studios with jazz royalty, including Wynton Marsalis, Freddie Hubbard, and Chick Corea. His own ensembles, such as Inside Straight and the New Jawn Quartet, consistently push the boundaries of jazz, showcasing his compositional prowess and his innate ability to lead and inspire. McBride’s playing is characterised by its muscularity, melodic invention, and an unwavering groove that forms the bedrock of any performance. He has also lent his talents to a diverse range of projects, from the cinematic scores of “The Producers” and “When the Game Stands Tall” to collaborations with pop icons like Sting and James Brown. His signature sound, deeply rooted in the tradition yet vibrantly modern, has made him a cornerstone of jazz for over two decades.

Benny Green, a pianist celebrated for his incandescent technique and soulful improvisations, is a true heir to the lineage of jazz piano giants. Hailing from New York, Green’s career began to blossom in the late 1980s, quickly establishing him as a formidable talent. He has been a featured artist with numerous legendary musicians, including Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Betty Carter, and Gene Harris. His own recordings, often featuring a classic trio format, showcase his dynamic interplay, his remarkable harmonic sophistication, and his gift for crafting compelling melodic lines. Green’s playing is marked by its fiery spirit, its blues-infused sensibility, and an infectious joy that permeates every performance. He possesses a remarkable ability to evoke a wide spectrum of emotions, from introspective contemplation to jubilant exuberance, making each solo a captivating narrative. His commitment to the art form and his consistent pursuit of musical excellence have cemented his status as a beloved and influential pianist on the global jazz scene.

Gregory Hutchinson, a drummer renowned for his impeccable timing, creative rhythmic invention, and powerful yet nuanced approach, is a vital force in contemporary jazz. Often referred to as “The Governor” for his steady and commanding presence behind the kit, Hutchinson has been a sought-after collaborator for many of the genre’s most celebrated artists. His impressive resume includes extensive work with Christian McBride himself, as well as with jazz titans such as Joe Henderson, Terence Blanchard, and Roy Hargrove. Hutchinson’s drumming is a masterclass in supportive yet dynamic accompaniment, providing a solid foundation while simultaneously adding layers of intricate texture and rhythmic colour. He possesses an uncanny ability to anticipate the musical conversation, responding to his bandmates with extraordinary sensitivity and spontaneity. His solos are not mere displays of technique but rather extensions of the musical narrative, imbued with a profound sense of swing and inventiveness. His contribution is often the spark that ignites a performance, elevating it to extraordinary heights.

Venue Information

TivoliVredenburg is Utrecht’s premier music venue, a modern architectural marvel that pulsates with the energy of live performances. Renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate atmosphere across its multiple halls, it offers an unparalleled setting for experiencing world-class music. From its state-of-the-art sound systems to its comfortable seating, TivoliVredenburg is dedicated to providing an optimal concert experience for both artists and audiences. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening of electrifying improvisational artistry as Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson engage in a deep and dynamic musical conversation. While no setlist is ever precisely replicated, audiences can anticipate a thrilling exploration of the jazz canon, infused with the unique voices and individual brilliance of these three masters. Expect a repertoire that may delve into beloved standards, showcasing timeless melodies with fresh interpretations. Furthermore, given the depth of their shared history and individual compositional strengths, audiences are likely to be treated to original compositions from McBride, Green, and perhaps even Hutchinson, offering a glimpse into their creative minds.

The performance style will undoubtedly be characterised by the trio’s extraordinary synergy. McBride’s formidable bass lines will provide a robust and melodic foundation, expertly anchoring the music. Green’s piano playing will be a dazzling display of harmonic invention, soulful improvisation, and rhythmic vitality, weaving intricate melodies and compelling solos. Hutchinson’s drumming will be the vibrant heartbeat of the ensemble, offering precise, dynamic, and endlessly creative rhythmic textures that respond intuitively to the nuances of each musical moment. This is a performance built on the art of listening and reacting, where spontaneous creativity is paramount. Expect moments of quiet introspection, building to explosive bursts of energy, all driven by an undeniable swing and a palpable joy for making music together. The duration of the performance is typically around 90 minutes, with a brief interval, allowing ample time for these virtuosos to explore a wide range of musical ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will there be a specific repertoire played by Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson, or will it be largely improvised?

While the specific setlist is never announced in advance and improvisation is a cornerstone of jazz, you can expect a programme that thoughtfully blends well-loved jazz standards with original compositions from the artists. These legendary musicians have a deep understanding of the jazz repertoire and will undoubtedly bring their unique interpretations to familiar tunes. However, the magic of this trio lies in their spontaneous interactions and improvisational brilliance, so expect many moments of thrilling, in-the-moment creation.

Q2: How would you describe the musical style of this particular trio?

This trio embodies the spirit of modern mainstream jazz, drawing heavily from the rich traditions of the genre while pushing its boundaries with contemporary sensibilities. Expect a performance that is deeply rooted in blues and swing, characterised by exceptional musicianship, sophisticated harmonic language, and a profound sense of groove. Christian McBride’s powerful bass playing, Benny Green’s soulful and virtuosic piano artistry, and Gregory Hutchinson’s dynamic and creative drumming will coalesce to create a sound that is both classic and vibrantly fresh.

Q3: What are some of the most significant achievements or notable hits in the careers of Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson?

All three artists have amassed significant accolades and have numerous acclaimed recordings to their names. Christian McBride is a multi-Grammy Award winner and has been nominated for over 15 Grammy Awards. His work with his own ensembles like Inside Straight and the New Jawn Quartet, as well as his collaborations with artists like Sting and James Brown, highlight his broad impact. Benny Green’s career has seen him collaborate with jazz legends like Art Blakey and Betty Carter, and he has released numerous highly regarded albums as a leader, such as “The Alley Cat.” Gregory Hutchinson is a Grammy winner and has been a pivotal member of many critically acclaimed recordings, including those with Joe Henderson and Roy Hargrove, often celebrated for his electrifying solos and foundational rhythmic contributions.

Q4: Is this a typical trio format for these artists, or is it a special collaboration?

While Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson have all worked together in various contexts over the years, including on recordings and in larger ensembles, a performance featuring just this specific trio configuration is a special and relatively rare occurrence. They have a deep musical understanding and a long history of playing together, making this a highly anticipated collaboration that promises a unique and intimate musical experience.

Q5: Can I expect Christian McBride to showcase his remarkable soloing abilities on the bass, or will he primarily be providing accompaniment?

Christian McBride is renowned for his exceptional bass solos, which are often melodic, harmonically adventurous, and technically brilliant. While he certainly provides a masterful foundation for the trio, it is highly probable that he will be featured prominently in solo passages, allowing his individual virtuosity and improvisational prowess to shine throughout the performance. His solos are a significant highlight for many of his fans.

Q6: What is the typical dynamic between these three musicians on stage?

The dynamic between Christian McBride, Benny Green, and Gregory Hutchinson is one of profound mutual respect and electrifying musical dialogue. They are all masters of listening and reacting, meaning their performances are characterised by a constant flow of musical ideas. Expect a performance where each musician pushes and inspires the others, creating a sense of thrilling spontaneity and shared musical exploration. The interplay between them is often as captivating as their individual solos, showcasing a deep and intuitive connection honed over years of musical collaboration.