The New York State Assembly and Senate passed a joint resolution on April 28 celebrating the birth centennial of legendary jazz saxophonist John Coltrane.
The unanimous resolution recognized Coltrane’s artistic legacy and his ties to the jazz culture of New York City after his move there during the late 1950s. The event at the New York State Capitol coincided with COLTRANE 100, which marks John Coltrane’s 100th.
Impulse! Records representatives – Coltrane’s record label – joined the state officials at the awarding event. The Coltrane Estate released a statement expressing appreciation to the state of New York for honoring the musician with the resolution also pointing out the state’s impact on the development of his musical career and legacy. The collection at the John and Alice Coltrane Home in Dix Hills, NY will include the resolution.
State Senator Cordell Cleare mentioned the ongoing celebrations being held in Harlem that were paying homage to Coltrane’s legacy. In Senator Jamaal Bailey’s statement on Coltrane, he was identified as an artist who would revolutionize music in the world. He stated that New York’s culture shaped John Coltrane.
Assembly member Jordan J.G. Wright also made his speech during the ceremony. He highlighted Coltrane’s role in developing the cultural heritage of Harlem as well as his influence on New York City’s jazz tradition.
Coltrane was born in North Carolina before moving to New York in 1957. He became a key player within the jazz scene in New York. The period Coltrane spent in New York was one of great development for him. This led to him performing in many places within New York and influencing the future of jazz music. Coltrane’s connection with New York would continue throughout his life until his death – Coltrane lived in Dix Hills and was buried in Farmingdale.
COLTRANE 100 programs have varied in nature, ranging from releases called the Tiberi Tapes to orchestral concerts and festival appearances in various parts of America. Impulse! Records and Verve have recently released The Tiberi Tapes.
Future plans for COLTRANE 100 include orchestral concerts in Philadelphia and Los Angeles also, the Newport Jazz Festival Tribute to Coltrane and Miles Davis.
It has been more than fifty years since his death in 1967 and Coltrane is still one of the most significant people in the history of jazz. John Coltrane’s contributions continue to influence modern music in many ways, and New York culture still associates him with its jazz legacy.
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