Herbie Hancock
Hollywood Bowl

The Second Great Quintet — Where It All Began

When Herbie Hancock joined Miles Davis's Second Great Quintet in 1963, he entered one of the most creatively fertile ensembles in jazz history. Alongside Wayne Shorter on saxophone, Ron Carter on bass, and Tony Williams on drums, Hancock helped push the boundaries of what a jazz rhythm section could do. The quintet's recordings — including E.S.P., Miles Smiles, Nefertiti, and Filles de Kilimanjaro — redefined the relationship between composition and improvisation, creating a fluid, conversational approach to group interplay that remains a reference point for jazz musicians today.

The lessons Hancock absorbed from Davis went beyond music. Davis's relentless forward motion — his refusal to repeat himself, his insistence on evolving — became the philosophical foundation of Hancock's own career. From acoustic jazz to jazz-funk to electronic experimentation to hip-hop-influenced projects, Hancock has spent five decades embodying the Milesian principle that jazz is not a museum piece but a living, breathing art form that must always look forward.

From Head Hunters to the Herbie Hancock Institute

Hancock's 1973 album Head Hunters remains one of the most important recordings in the history of jazz-funk fusion. It was the first jazz album to go platinum, introducing jazz to audiences who had never set foot in a jazz club. Its lead track, "Chameleon," fused deep funk grooves with jazz improvisation in a way that anticipated entire genres of electronic and dance music. In the decades since, Hancock has continued to surprise — embracing synthesizers and electronic production in the 1980s, collaborating with hip-hop producers in the 2000s, and consistently proving that genre boundaries are constructs he has no interest in respecting.

Beyond his performing career, Hancock has dedicated himself to ensuring jazz's future through the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz (formerly the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz). The organization provides mentorship, performance opportunities, and educational resources to young jazz musicians around the world, carrying forward the legacy of innovation and excellence that defines both Hancock's work and the tradition of Miles Davis.

Your Guide to Attending This Jazz Milestone

1. Browse available tickets — Search our marketplace for listings across all Hollywood Bowl sections for the August 19 Herbie Hancock concert.
2. Choose your section — Garden boxes offer intimate proximity to the musicians. Terrace sections provide a broader view of the stage and the stunning hillside setting.
3. Purchase securely — Every transaction includes buyer protection and all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees.
4. Plan your evening — Gates open at 6:00 PM for an 8:00 PM show. The two-hour pre-show window is perfect for picnicking and settling into the atmosphere.
5. Arrange transportation — Use the Park and Ride shuttle, rideshare services, or on-site parking. The shuttle from various LA locations is the most convenient option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herbie Hancock at the Hollywood Bowl

When is Herbie Hancock performing at the Hollywood Bowl in 2026?

Herbie Hancock performs at the Hollywood Bowl on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 with a concert titled Herbie Hancock Celebrates Miles Davis. Gates open at 6:00 PM with the performance starting at 8:00 PM. The concert marks the centennial of Miles Davis, who would have turned 100 on May 26, 2026, and is led by Hancock in his role as Creative Chair for Jazz at the Hollywood Bowl.

What is the significance of the Miles Davis centennial celebration?

Miles Davis, born May 26, 1926, is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians in the history of jazz and popular music. His centennial in 2026 represents a landmark moment for the music world. Having Herbie Hancock lead the celebration is particularly meaningful because Hancock was a member of Davis's legendary Second Great Quintet in the 1960s and credits Davis as a defining influence on his own artistic philosophy of constant innovation and evolution.

How many Grammy Awards has Herbie Hancock won?

Herbie Hancock has won fourteen Grammy Awards over his five-decade career. Among his most notable wins is the Album of the Year for River: The Joni Letters, a rare honor for a jazz recording. He has also won an Academy Award for his film score to Round Midnight and received numerous other honors recognizing his contributions to jazz, fusion, and popular music as both a performer and composer.

What is Herbie Hancock best known for?

Herbie Hancock is best known as one of the greatest jazz pianists and composers of all time. His landmark compositions include Cantaloupe Island, Watermelon Man, Maiden Voyage, and Chameleon, all of which have become jazz standards performed worldwide. His 1973 album Head Hunters was the first jazz album to achieve platinum certification. He is also renowned for his genre-crossing innovations, blending jazz with funk, electronic music, and hip-hop throughout his career.

What was the Miles Davis Second Great Quintet?

The Second Great Quintet was a jazz ensemble led by Miles Davis from 1964 to 1968, consisting of Davis on trumpet, Wayne Shorter on saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and Tony Williams on drums. The group is considered one of the greatest small jazz ensembles ever assembled and produced a series of groundbreaking recordings that redefined the relationship between composition and improvisation in jazz.

What role does Herbie Hancock play at the Hollywood Bowl?

Herbie Hancock serves as the Creative Chair for Jazz at the Hollywood Bowl, a position that reflects his stature in the jazz world and his deep connection to the venue. In this role, he helps shape the jazz programming at the Bowl and leads special concerts that highlight the art form's history and future. The Miles Davis centennial celebration is a signature event of his creative leadership at the venue.

What is the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz?

The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, formerly known as the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, is the foremost international organization dedicated to jazz development and education. Founded and led by Hancock, the institute provides mentorship, performance opportunities, scholarships, and educational programs for young jazz musicians around the world. It represents Hancock's commitment to ensuring that the art of jazz continues to evolve and thrive for future generations.

Can I bring food and drinks to the Herbie Hancock show?

Yes, the Hollywood Bowl allows guests to bring their own food and non-glass beverages into most seating areas. The 6:00 PM gate time provides two hours before the 8:00 PM concert to enjoy a picnic dinner, explore the venue, and settle into the pre-show atmosphere. On-site dining options and concession stands are also available for those who prefer not to bring their own refreshments.

What is the best seating section for a jazz concert at the Hollywood Bowl?

For a jazz performance like Herbie Hancock, garden boxes near the stage offer the most intimate experience, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of the piano playing and the interplay between musicians. Mid-terrace sections provide excellent sightlines and a good balance of proximity and atmosphere. Upper terrace seats offer panoramic views of the entire venue and surroundings, which can be particularly beautiful during an evening performance as the lights of Los Angeles emerge.

How do I get to the Hollywood Bowl?

The Park and Ride shuttle service runs from multiple locations across Los Angeles and is the most popular and convenient option. Rideshare services have designated drop-off and pick-up areas near the entrance. On-site parking is available but can fill quickly for popular events. The Metro Red Line to Hollywood and Highland station offers a public transit option with shuttle connections or an uphill walk to the venue.

Are your tickets guaranteed authentic?

All tickets on our platform come from verified sellers and are guaranteed authentic. We have been connecting fans with legitimate tickets through our secure resale marketplace for over two decades. Every purchase includes buyer protection, and our pricing is fully transparent with all fees included in the listed price. Our customer support team is available to assist with any questions before or after your purchase.

What if the Herbie Hancock concert is cancelled?

If the event is officially cancelled without a rescheduled date, purchases through our marketplace are covered by our buyer protection policy and eligible for a refund. If the show is postponed, tickets generally remain valid for the new date. Specific terms are provided during the purchase process, and our support team is available to help with any questions about your order.