Any experienced musician knows that it takes a great deal of skill and control to pull off a quiet and subtle performance that retains a sense of passion. During Friday night’s first set at the Kennedy Center’s KC Jazz Club, bassist extraordinaire John Patitucci (pictured) remarked, “You guys are so quiet tonight!” Indeed, there was pin drop silence within the crowd, but it was not due to boredom or a lack of appreciation. Rather, the audience was silent because it was engrossed in a stellar performance by a trio of virtuosos who emphasized the space between the notes without sacrificing the slightest bit of energy or intensity.

Fluent in a number of musical styles and equally at home playing upright or electric, he played both 6-string and double bass on Friday, Patitucci has staked his claim as one of jazz’s great bassists. He has played with luminaries such as Chick Corea and Wayne Shorter while establishing himself as a fine band leader in his own right. One of his usual partners-in-crime is drummer Brian Blade, a master of subtlety who combines a deep knowledge of tradition with an energy that has made him one of the most sought after jazz drummers of the past decade. Rounding out the trio was guitarist Larry Koonse, who favors a more traditional jazz guitar sound but plays with an airy style that provides a lush cushion for the high-level interaction between the bandmembers. While the playing was busy at times, the group’s understated approach forced the audience to concentrate in order to catch the nuance of the music.