A journey through the lives and music of John and Alice Coltrane.
1937
John Moves to Philadelphia
Coltrane began playing saxophone at an early age. His earliest recordings were as a sailor with the U.S. Navy. He began playing professionally around Philadelphia shortly after.
1950
Alice Moves to Paris to Study with Bud Powell
Alice performing at the Blue Note, Paris with Al King (bass) and Don Brown (drums).
1955
John Joins Miles Davis’ “First Great Quintet”
Coltrane and Davis would go on to record and perform together prolifically, creating one of the most significant partnerships in jazz.
The Coltrane Home is built in Dix Hills, NY.
1957
John Joins Thelonious Monk’s Group
1959
John Plays on Miles’ Pivotal Album
John plays on Miles’ seminal album Kind of Blue, and two weeks later records his debut as leader, Giant Steps.
1963
Alice Meets John While Playing with the Terry Gibbs Quartet
The connection was instant, and the couple was married two years later, the same year as the birth of their first son.
1964
John Composes A Love Supreme
John’s hand‑written poem to accompany the iconic album.
1966
Alice Replaces McCoy Tyner in John’s Landmark Group
1968
Alice begins recording her landmark albums for Impulse! Records
1973
Alice and the children move to California
1982
Turiya releases first spiritual cassette, Turiya Sings
The original cassette was released in 1982. The re‑imagined, largely previously unheard Kirtan: Turiya Sings was released 16 July 2021.
Now
Coltrane Home Listed on National Register of Historic Places
The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Home entered into a partnership. In 2019 The Coltrane Home was named a National Treasure.