BORN in Oklahoma in 1923, Sam Rivers is still going strong in the music world.

The 81 year-old American is on tour again, this time as part of a trio and headed straight for Southampton.

The virtuoso saxophonist and flautist has decided that it is time to join forces with some other great musicians in order to spread jazz music across the world.

Considered one of the great composers of our times, his musical roots go deep into the bedrock of jazz and it's hardly surprising after decades in the industry.

Born into a musical family, Sam grew into musical and has played with the likes of Jimmy Witherspoon, Billie Holiday and Miles Davis.

Twenty years ago he moved to Florida and formed the trio that continues to provide the focal point for his music, with multi-instrumentalist Anthony Cole and Doug Matthews.

Especially for this tour, the trio is complemented by a specially recruited British big band, Rivbea Orchestra UK.

The big band features some of the most exciting names on the scene today.

Audiences at the Turner Sims Concert Hall tonight will be in for a treat as this tour marks Sam Rivers' first visit to these shores as the leader of his own band since 1981.

Turner Sims Concert Hall, Southampton. Friday, November 12. Performance: 8pm. Tickets: £14. Box office: 023 8059 5151