The estate of John Coltrane has unveiled Coltrane 100, a comprehensive year-long programme celebrating the centennial of the iconic saxophonist and composer, per udiscovermusic.com.
The legendary jazz saxophonist’s 100th anniversary will be marked by rare recordings, orchestral premieres, and the opening of his historic family homes.
The festivities span unearthed live recordings, major symphonic concerts, and the public opening of the musician’s former residences.
The centrepiece of the celebration is the first-ever official release of the Tiberi Tapes. Recorded by musician Frank Tiberi between 1961 and 1965, these legendary live sets capture Coltrane across various clubs in New York and Philadelphia.
Long a subject of jazz lore, the collection will debut via Impulse! Records as a Record Store Day exclusive on April 18, followed by a full global release in September. Jamie Krents, president of Verve Label Group, described the release as a “true privilege,” offering a rare window into Coltrane’s lightning-fast musical evolution.
To kick off the visual campaign, Impulse! has released a new video for “Acknowledgement” from the 1965 masterpiece A Love Supreme. Directed by AG Rojas, the film recreates the atmosphere of the original recording sessions at Van Gelder Studios.
On the live circuit, “Coltrane 100: Legacy” will see Coltrane’s catalogue reimagined for a full orchestra.
• St. Louis: Debuting February 28 with soloist Joe Lovano.
•Los Angeles: Premiering at the Hollywood Bowl on September 23 (Coltrane’s birthday), featuring soloist Lakecia Benjamin and a final Bowl performance by Wynton Marsalis.
In a landmark move for jazz history, both The John & Alice Coltrane Home in Dix Hills, New York, and The John Coltrane House in Philadelphia will open to the public for the first time this year. These sites will serve as hubs for community education and performances.
Collectors can also expect a heavy release schedule throughout 2026:
•Impulse! Records: High-fidelity vinyl reissues of Africa/Brass, Ascension, and Meditations.
•Rhino Records: A comprehensive 1960-1964 Mono box set featuring Giant Steps and My Favourite Things.
•Craft Recordings: The Best of John Coltrane, focusing on his influential 1957–1958 sessions.
•Featured image: Cover: Courtesy of Universal Music
