Vibraphonist Gary Burton’s four-mallet technique is astonishing, and has revolutionized the role of the vibraphone in ensemble playing. After touring in the mid-60s with pianist George Shearing and saxophonist Stan Getz, Burton established his own group, the Gary Burton Quartet, in 1967, with guitarist Larry Coryell, drummer Roy Haynes, and bassist Steve Swallow. Their album Duster, released in the same year, is one of the earliest jazz-rock (or fusion) recordings.

Burton is also highly regarded for his duo playing, and his collaborations with Chick Corea have resulted in six albums, garnering five Grammy awards for the pair. Recently, Burton toured and recorded an album with his group Quartet Live, which revisits the music of his 1970s quartet with Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow and Antonio Sanchez.

In addition to his impressive discography and performing career, Burton has been heavily involved with jazz education, including a 33-year career with the Berklee College of Music. Many notable musicians have cut their teeth in Burton’s band, including guitarists John Scofield and Kurt Rosenwinkel.

At this year’s Winnipeg Jazz Festival, Burton will be joined by a stellar lineup of musicians under the moniker The New Gary Burton Quartet. Bassist Scott Colley has appeared on more than 200 albums and has backed up many of the biggest names in jazz, including Herbie Hancock, Jim Hall, Andrew Hill, and Michael Brecker. Drummer Antonio Sanchez has one of the highest-profile gigs around as a member of the Pat Metheny Group and Trio, and his two recent albums as a leader showcase his original and dynamic approach. Guitarist Julian Lage is only 23, but he has already recorded two albums with Gary Burton and his solo debut album was nominated for a Grammy award in 2010.

The lineup of Burton, Colley, Sanchez and Lage should make for an unforgettable and engaging concert experience.