American Art with Global Representation
Friday, March 5th, 2021 at 10 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.
Michael Giles, Saxophone & Jazz Studies, Department of Music & Theatre, Teaching Professor of Music
Jazz is one of the more unique and longstanding American art forms. Its foundation is rooted in the fusion of Western musical studies and aspects of slave communication from the plantation fields. This music developed in both metropolitan cities and small pockets of the country. It quickly expanded across the land over radio waves and road tours. The presence in institutionalized education Programs gave it wider recognition and legitimacy within our government and the general public. State department Programs and independent tours helped introduce new faces to this music on a global scale. Many believe that jazz is falling out of vogue, but the expansion of practice & acceptance of this music can be copiously connected to multiple races & ethnicities. I believe that we may now be just beginning to see the fruits of our labor. America prides itself on being a melting pot of cultures, welcoming to all. Jazz is becoming revitalized by the energy & artistry of international performers. This presentation will offer a brief synopsis of how we got to where we are, an introduction to several musicians that represent nearly forty international movers & shakers on the jazz scene, and a prediction of how a true American art form will grow exponentially stronger by expanding its practitioners and audience.
See the presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUEcPOzLTK4