Of all my musical experiences, playing with Von Freeman has been an experience that really defies description. I started going down to see Von at the Apartment Lounge in 1990 at the ripe age of 20. I was so enamored by his playing, I started going every week to see him, and this lasted for practically 7 years. In October of 1997 I joined his quartet at the New Apartment Lounge with drummer Michael Raynor and, at that time, bassist Rob Amster.

Von is probably, for me, the most important influence on my conception as a jazz musician. Every week he shows me something new about music and life. Some nights I wish I had a recorder on for some of our crazy conversations. He is a treasure that every Chicagoan and every musician should appreciate. Apprenticing with him has been an experience I will cherish for the rest of my days.
The Von Freeman Quartet plays every Tuesday at the New Apartment Lounge, 504 E. 75th St. on Chicago's south side starting at 10:30pm until rigor mortis sets in. The Quartet consists of Von Freeman, tenor sax, Mike Allemana, guitar, Matt Ferguson, bass, and Michael Raynor, drums.

(photo by Michael Jackson)

See Highlights with Von Freeman in the Gallery to check out some cool photos.