Tribute Concert to Alvin Fielder: Polyrhythmic Democracy

[Monte]

This is from my drummer Chad, who studied with Alvin. He is in poor health so they are doing this in Jackson, MS.

Some of you who know who Alvin Fielder is, know that his health has been in serious decline lately and you know of his substantial contributions to Jazz music. We are holding a special concert for Alvin, hoping his health will allow for him to be present, but if not, we're pressing on in order to play this music and put it out there as both a measure of love and respect that we have for Al and also as a method of putting the music out there as positive energy toward his serious health condition.

The information on this concert is pasted below, but also, Patrice and I are putting a website together with a guestbook (and possible other means) for those wishing to send positive messages to Alvin as a means of lifting his spirits, or just want to say hello. I will periodically print out and send these messages to Alvin, as he isn't directly online. If you know Al, or have enjoyed his wisdom, stories or his music and want to let him know, you can do so, respectfully at http://www.alvinfielder.com
(visit website, scroll down and click on "guestbook and leave a message for Alvin)

Here is the info on the concert:

A Concert Tribute to Alvin Fielder: Polyrhythmic Democracy

July 11, 2009

6:00 P.M.

Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center
528 Bloom Street
Jackson, MS 39202
(601) 960-1457 Phone

Free Admission – Donation Encouraged

(Jackson, MS) – A special tribute concert honoring the musical legacy and contributions of internationally-renowned, master drummer, Alvin Fielder, will be held on July 11, 2009 – 6:00 P.M. at the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center in Jackson, Mississippi.

Mississippi native, Alvin Fielder devotes his life to pushing the envelope within the American art form of Jazz music. His conceptions and contributions within the music have been documented on recordings and powerfully expressed in live performances around the world. Alvin’s influence has reached deeply into the lives of most everyone who knows him, and with the spirit of tough love as a teacher, his extensive, encyclopedic knowledge of Jazz history (and many other subjects) has encouraged and influenced many musicians – young and old – on their search for their individual artistic voice.

This concert performance will feature pianist, Chris Parker from Memphis, TN/Little Rock, AR, along with bassist, Dr. London Branch from Jackson, MS, and drummer, Chad Anderson from Tupelo, MS. Special musical guests will include saxophonist, Edward ‘Kidd’ Jordan from New Orleans, LA, bassist, Rodney Jordan from Tallahassee, FL and others.

As gesture of appreciation, the music presented within this special concert will feature a range of compositions from bebop and beyond. From the music of Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk, Benny Golson, and others, to original compositions by Alvin Fielder himself, the sounds will reflect and honor the influence of Alvin Fielder as a master drummer, composer, mentor, and friend.

The public is invited to attend this special event in support and appreciation of Alvin Fielder’s legacy. All ages are welcome. Admission is free of charge; however, a donation is suggested.

For additional information, please contact:

Chris Parker at cwparker@memphis.edu

Chad Anderson at chad@chadanderson.com

[Monte]

For those that don't know Al's drumming, he was with Sun Ra, Muhal Richard Abrams, Roscoe Mitchell, and Eddie Harris. Also best known as a founding member of the AACM.