A wonderful Charles Mingus documentary was aired on PBS earlier this month. It features a performance by the Mingus Big Band interspersed with conversations on the life and music of this jazz icon. For Hartford jazz fans, you will recognize several familiar faces of University of Hartford alumni/faculty that have appeared around town over the [...]
In 1965, Franzo and Marina King witnessed a live performance of John Coltrane in San Francisco. For them it was truly a religious experience that eventually lead to the founding of the "Church of Saint John Coltrane". This excellent National Public Radio documentary will recount the story behind the Church of Saint John Coltrane, built [...]
by Ken Laster There has always been a special bond between photography and jazz. Black and white images of Miles and Trane, iconic album covers and classic photographs taken in NYC clubs, are as connected to the jazz idiom as is the music itself. Even today photographers are a prominent part of the Hartford Jazz [...]
by Ken Laster Miles Davis is undoubtably one of the most influential artists in the history of the jazz idiom. He is also among the most revered, respected as well as criticized and controversial players in jazz. So, when any new media is released regarding the life and music of Miles, it is always met [...]
by Ken Laster If you have been waiting for this movie to find its way to a theater near you, wait no longer. Bolden is available through your favorite movie streaming service. Click the links to rent or purchase on Apple iTunes or Google Play. I'll rate Bolden 3 of 5 stars just [...]