Ithaca Blog

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Jason Moran Brings Thelonious Monk Tribute to Cornell, Sat. 20 Sept.

Ithaca gets the jump on New York City, Washington, San Francisco, Chicago, and other cities this weekend when jazz pianist Jason Moran comes here first with his multi-media tribute to Thelonious Monk, for the 90th anniversary of Monk's birth.

"In My Mind: Monk at Town Hall 1959" takes place at Bailey Hall at Cornell. The performance is open to the public, and free of charge, although tickets are required.

Moran studied classical piano as a child and first heard Monk at age 13. He credits Monk as a central figure in his playing and career.

Only 33, Moran has released half a dozen albums, and recorded with Cassandra Wilson, Joe Lovano, Wayne Shorter, Dave Holland, and many others.

"In My Mind" is an original piece inspired by Monk's historic Town Hall concert. It combines video and audio of Monk and his band with new music by Moran and his ensemble.

The concert is at 8 pm. Ticket information is available at http://www.cornellconcertseries.com/.

Stephen Burke
for Itahca Blog

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