Product DescriptionThe nonet format holds a special place in jazz. The format produces the wide array of voices and colors of a big band, while maintaining the tight, quicksilver unity of a small ensemble. Miles Davis and Gil Evans put the format on the map with their historic 1948-50 Birth of the Cool recordings.The nonet, featuring tenor saxophonist John Ellis, guitarist Nate Ratley, and bass clarinetist Douglas Yates, and augmented by a fluid and formidable string ensemble conducted by J.C. Sanford, unveils nine selections that sonically symbolize a true marriage of notes and tones in complete harmony.