To say Max Roach was a bebop pioneer, or a paramount innovator of the drums, or a prominent social activist would be accurate. Yet these labels fall short of this American icon’s totality. One drummer who not only understands this idea, but has benefitted from Roach single-handedly changing the perception of what it means to be a drummer, is composer, arranger, and percussion wizard Ali Jackson. After crossing paths with Roach at age 12, Jackson was forever impacted, and the two would enjoy a formative student-teacher connection.
In a one-night-only salute to the father of modern drumming, JLCO member Jackson illuminates Roach’s conceptual and artistic genius. As a drummer, Roach kicked down perceived boundaries of drumming, creating clear melodies, advanced themes, and unparalleled virtuosity.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:
SATURDAY MAY 30th @ 8 PM
Show Notes: 1 Intermission
Audience Advisory:
Free pre-concert discussion at 7pm.