MU239 Lecture Notes - Lecture 16: Oscar Brown, Duke Ellington, Max Roach
Document Summary
Also known for his activism against racial injustice. Many of his most controversial compositions (like 1960s" fables of faubus) are socially-driven, often bitingly sarcastic, jabs at america"s failure to deal effectively with its own race issues. Ranks among the very best of jazz composers of this musical diversity and individuality. Take an abstract idea and realize it with music. Bass and flute is about meditation on integration. Two instruments shouldn"t play melody together play melody together. Also poly rhythm, different rhythm: two different tempos played at once. Worked with many of the greatest jazz musicians, including charlie parker, miles davis, Roach also lead his own groups, and made numerous musical statements relating to the civil rights movement. Freedom now suite with lyrics by poet oscar brown. Using his musical abilities to comment on the african-american experience would be a significant part of his career. Started career as torch singer, being groomed to be the next billie holiday.
