Tomeka Reid
Modern Cello Visionary
A central figure in Chicago’s avant-garde, Reid blends classical precision with experimental improvisation to redefine the cello’s role in contemporary jazz.
About
Tomeka Reid is an acclaimed cellist, composer, and 2022 MacArthur Fellow. A prominent member of Chicago’s Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), she leads the Tomeka Reid Quartet and co-founded the trio Hear in Now. Her work is celebrated for bridging the gap between chamber music and free-form jazz.
Music Style
Reid’s approach integrates extended techniques and percussive textures with deep melodic sensitivity. Her sound balances rhythmic groove with experimental improvisation, pushing the cello beyond its traditional classical boundaries.
Background
- Hometown
- Washington, D.C.
- Education
- University of Maryland, DePaul University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Instruments
- cello
- Active
- 2000s-present
Similar Artists
If you like Abdul Wadud or Nicole Mitchell — you'll love this artist
Notable Collaborations
Upcoming Events
Dave Douglas Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Gifts Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Gifts Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Gifts Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Gifts Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Dave Douglas Gifts Quintet
Village Vanguard
Cello
Past Events
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Solo
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Duo
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Tomeka Reid Trio
The Stone
cello • Headliner
Showing 10 of 14 past events