As I often point out in lectures and talks, the arts are an essential part of building communities. People come together with common interests, find a communal form of expression, exchange ideas, create experiences, and also build economies and business – for example Bloomington’s own Cardinal Stage Company is showing Oliver at the moment with a host of local actors and children on the stage, sold-out houses every night, lots of dinner and hospitality business along with the shows, and happy audiences getting into the holiday spirit of giving and cherishing memories with loved ones. The story of Indiana Avenue as exemplified by our own David Baker and the group of outstanding jazz musicians that evolved from this nurturing community with plenty of opportunities is another example. If you’re not familiar, enjoy the details in “David Baker – A Legacy in Music”. The impact of local history is often overlooked in our Superstar society and several year
s ago, I started community courses on local jazz history. I did a series in Indianapolis, featuring the stories of our contemporary jazz musicians as well as the history of David Baker, Wes Montgomery, Freddie Hubbard, Slide Hampton, J.J. Johnson, the Gennett Studios, and much more. Bloomington has similar gems with the story of Hoagy Carmichael and Bix Beiderbecke, Al Cobine, David Baker’s work as a jazz educator, and our contemporary heroes. The class usually meets six evenings at 6pm and we’ll explore a style of jazz, then have one of the local jazz masters join us to share their story and at 8pm we’ll move the class to a performance location and enjoy a themed show with the special guest. Over the years, the class participants have formed a very special group of friends and jazz lovers who still like to gather and participate in their local jazz scenes.
I’m excited to announce the Spring 2017 edition of “An Introduction to Jazz History & The Bloomington Jazz Scene” offered through the Ivy Tech Continuing Education program to the community. We will meet for six Tuesdays at Topo’s 403 on 8th & Walnut starting March 21. Join us to learn, to meet new friends, to share the fun with a family member or friend, or make it a special gift this season – below is the info. To sign up, follow this link and scroll down to the topic of Music Making to find the class. Let me know if you have questions/ need more info.
Intro to Jazz History & the Bloomington Jazz Scene
Join jazz musician and historian Monika Herzig, author of David Baker–A Legacy in Music, for six unforgettable evenings that combine lecture, performances, discussions, and good company at one of Bloomington’s finest restaurants. After an hour of getting expert guidance on a jazz style, Dr. Herzig will invite a prominent regional jazz musician to share their stories and background. Then the class will move downstairs into the dining room for a themed performance of Dr. Herzig with the guest artist over drinks and dinner. Guests will include Grammy-nominated Wayne Wallace, vocal favorite Janiece Jaffe, dazzling violinist Carolyn Dutton, NEA Jazz Master Jamey Aebersold, and many more. No prior music knowledge needed—just come, enjoy, and learn.
CRN: 30146-163
Dr. Monika Herzig
6 Tuesdays
3/21/17-5/2/17 (no class 4/25/17)
6:00-8:00 PM (with concert from 8:00-10:00 PM)
Topo’s 403
403 N Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404
$119 | Register by: 3/14/17
(Food and drink not included in price)