Dolphin Dance and George Coleman

(94) Dolphin Dance and George Coleman 

“Dolphin Dance,” from Herbie Hancock’s 1965 album Maiden Voyage (Blue Note Records), is a luminous example of modern jazz composition. Built on a 38-bar form, the tune flows with modal harmonies, shifting tonal centers, and a lyrical melody unified by rhythmic motifs. Hancock’s use of parallel motion, pedal tones, and deceptive resolutions creates a sound both serene and exploratory—perfectly evoking the imagery of dolphins gliding through water. The piece balances sophistication with accessibility, making it a staple for improvisers and one of Hancock’s most frequently interpreted works. 

George Coleman, the tenor saxophonist on the recording, brings a warm, articulate voice that bridges hard bop and modal jazz. Born in Memphis in 1935, Coleman’s career included pivotal collaborations with Miles Davis, Max Roach, and Elvin Jones. His solo on “Dolphin Dance” reflects both intellectual precision and blues-rooted depth, embodying his role as a vital link between post-bop tradition and modern innovation.