Summing Up 40 Years With the MJQ

The Modern Jazz Quartet--whose history is chronicled on “MJQ 40,” a four-CD set just released on Atlantic Records--is a unique, be-bop-based ensemble.

Formed in 1952, the group has been responsible for several breakthroughs. It was the first jazz band to consistently blend aspects of be-bop and classical music, achieving a distinctive chamber jazz style. It was also the first jazz unit to choose concert halls, rather than nightclubs, as its preferred venues.

The result has been international recognition for the longstanding foursome--John Lewis, piano and musical director; Milt Jackson, vibes; Percy Heath, bass, and Connie Kay, drums. (Kay replaced the band’s original drummer, Kenny Clarke, in 1954.)

“The importance of the MJQ cannot be minimized. The musicians were very influential in taking jazz to a different level, broadening the scope of the jazz audience,” said Didier Deutsch, producer of the set that celebrates the quartet’s 40th anniversary.

The collection’s 54 selections--most from releases on the Atlantic label, though tracks from other labels for which the band has recorded are included--give listeners a comprehensive look at the MJQ’s oeuvre. The quartet’s performances are sometimes augmented by string orchestras, vocalists (Diahann Carroll) and instrumentalists (Sonny Rollins, Laurindo Almeida).

Whether tackling an adaptation of J. S. Bach or a classic like “I Remember Clifford,” a jazz sensibility pervades these MJQ selections. Additionally, primary soloist Jackson’s blues-drenched be-bop spirit provides a startling foil to Lewis’ spare, almost-Basie-ish piano.

“MJQ 40” retails for $69.98.

Championing New Music: Los Angeles music venues have generally not offered a warm reception to jazz-based performers of “New Music,” a term used by musicians for any adventurous music that is outside of the mainstream or fusion genres.

One exception is the Catalina Bar & Grill in Hollywood, where such artists as pianists Cecil Taylor have occasionally performed and where Dutch saxophonist Willem Breuker’s 10-piece Kollektief makes its first area appearance in almost a decade on Monday and Tuesday.

Another receptive venue has been the Music Recital Hall at Harbor College in Wilmington, where the Musicians Collective has been presenting concerts with artists such as James Newton for five years. Pianist Glenn Horiuchi appears tonight at 8. Admission is by donation, all of which goes to the musicians. Information: (310) 532-0707.

Critic’s Choice: Brazilian pianist Guilherme Vergueiro is an engaging, vital artist. His pieces are packed with melody and rhythmic energy--the mainstays of samba music--but he also has a strong jazz presence that leads to seething, listenable improvisations. His cohort Saturday at the Jazz Bakery in Culver City is Brazilian saxophonist-flutist Teco Cardoso, a most persuasive soloist.