“Rhythms Changing America”

Free and open to the public!

 “Rhythms Changing America” – a discussion and concert exploring the links between Africa and jazz – America’s original music

Wednesday, April 10

Discussion 6 – 7 p.m. 

Concert 7:30 p.m.

Warner Bros. Theater, National Museum of American History, 14th and Constitution Ave., NW

Dr. Johnnetta Cole, Director of the National African Art Museum, talks with National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Randy Weston and historian Wayne Chandler, author of Ancient Future, about “Africa and Jazz,”  uncovering stories and images of Africa’s roots in America’s history through jazz that have transformed the nation.

Dr. John Edward Hasse, Curator of American Music, follows up with a discussion on “Jazz and Freedom” with Cuban percussionist Candido Camero and American history scholar Robin D.G. Kelley, author of the biography of Thelonious Monk and Africa Speaks, America Answers: Modern Jazz in Revolutionary Times. Across the nation, around the world jazz is known as “freedom’s music.” Why?

At 7:30 p.m. Randy Weston’s African Rhythms Trio, and guest percussionist Candido Camero, bring the talks to a musical climax, performing excerpts from Weston’s newest opus Nubian Suite, a composition using jazz, spoken word, and world music.

Event concludes with a book signing by Randy Weston of his autobiography “African Rhythms”.

A live webcast of the event can be seen by clicking on the link. For more information, visit this site. 

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