Remembering The Legacy Of Charles Mingus
JazzBuffalo is thrilled to spotlight a unique opportunity for the jazz community as the University at Buffalo Department of Music hosts the renowned Mingus Dynasty Septet in concert on Friday, November 1st, 2024, at 7:30 PM at Lippes Concert Hall in Slee Hall. This is a rare occasion for jazz lovers to experience the music of legendary composer and bassist Charles Mingus, performed by a top-tier ensemble dedicated exclusively to his revolutionary compositions.
The Mingus Dynasty Septet, formed to honor the legacy of Charles Mingus, brings his powerful musical contributions to life. Mingus, who briefly taught at UB in 1971, left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, blending soulful improvisation with complex, emotionally charged compositions. Celebrating his Centennial in 2022, the spirit of Mingus continues to resonate deeply within the jazz world, and this concert will be a remarkable tribute to his genius.
The event includes a pre-concert talk moderated by Jeff Miers and featuring UB faculty member Sabu Adeyola, a protégé of the late Mingus. This discussion promises to enrich the evening by offering historical context and personal insights into Mingus’ profound influence on jazz and modern music.
The Mingus Dynasty Septet includes a stellar lineup of musicians, all of whom are veterans of the Mingus repertory: Wayne Escoffery on tenor sax, Brandon Wright on alto sax and flute, Conrad Herwig on trombone, Philip Harper on trumpet, David Kikoski on piano, Boris Kozlov on bass, and Donald Edwards on drums. This elite group will transport the audience into Mingus’ world of rhythmic intensity, dynamic improvisation, and unmatched musical expression.
Following the concert, a special workshop with UB jazz students will take place the next morning, Saturday, November 2nd, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, also in Lippes Concert Hall. This session is free and open for public observation, providing a rare behind-the-scenes look at how these master musicians continue to explore and interpret Mingus’ complex compositions.
As we continue to celebrate and expand Buffalo’s vibrant jazz community, this collaboration between the University at Buffalo and the Mingus Dynasty Septet is a significant event that highlights the city’s rich jazz heritage. JazzBuffalo is proud to serve as a media sponsor for this concert, which brings together students, musicians, and the broader community to honor the timeless contributions of Charles Mingus.
Tickets are available for $20 through TicketMaster.com, the UB Center for the Arts box office, or on the night of the concert at the Slee Hall box office. UB students can attend for free with a valid student ID. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Mingus and be part of a celebration that will inspire and bring our jazz community together.
