June officially marks Black Music Month, and in celebration, Jazz Generations Initiative are presenting a series titled “What Freedom Sounds Like…” for the month of June. Every Tuesday and Thursday of the month will feature live events, from performances to panel discussions in Brooklyn.
The Jazz Generations Initiative is a project dedicated to giving artists opportunities in jazz music and studies. The initiative functions in New York to connect and teach artists about jazz’s legacy while continuing that legacy through newer artists. The initiative is hosting its series at 651 Arts and Cafe Erzulie.
The first show of the month kicked off on June 4 at 651 Arts, with musician Kofi Hunter giving a performance with his jazz ensemble. The performance was in tribute to The Father of South African jazz, Hugh Masekela. Hunter also participated in a panel about Masekela’s work and impact.
Most of the series encompasses jazz artists from the past and present. Works from John Coltrane will be discussed and performed by jazz musician Irwin Hall. Additionally, musicians such donSMITH, Liany Mateo, and Devon Gates will perform with their own ensembles later in the month.
Listed below are the events for the rest of the series in June, and where they will take place. Sunday, June 21 will have a special occasion focusing on dance music in celebration of Juneteenth. This will feature live DJs Kai the Universe and Classic New Wave, along with other special guests.
“What Freedom Sounds Like…” Jazz Series Schedule
Tues, Jun 9 – The World Within: The Global Sounds of John Coltrane (651 Arts)
Thurs, Jun 11 – Irwin Hall Performs “The World Within” (Cafe Erzulie)
Tues, Jun 16 – donSMITH on Indie Filmmaking (651 Arts)
Thurs, Jun 18 – donSMITH and His Jazz-Rap Trio Perform (Cafe Erzulie)
Tues, Jun 23 – Farah Jasmine Griffin, Liany Mateo, and Devon Gates (651 Arts)
Thurs, Jun 25 – Liany Mateo and Devon Gates Perform (Cafe Erzulie)
All events are free to attend. For more information on programming and where to RSVP, click here.
Comments are closed.