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05/06/2021 12:01 AM

Jazz and the Civil Rights Movement with Galen Abdur-Razzaq


A free, illustrated music performance and talk on the influence of jazz in the Civil Rights Movement will be given by professional flautist and music educator Galen Abdur-Razzaq at 7 p.m. May 20 for the Essex Library on Zoom. Abdur-Razzaq will focus on prominent musicians and their music. The event is free and open to the public, registration is required. Photo courtesy of Essex Library

Professional flautist and music educator Galen Abdur-Razzaq will discuss prominent artists, their music, and their influence on the evolution of jazz on Thursday, May 20 at 7 p.m.

The program begins with a flute prelude performed by Galen and continues with pre-recorded musical examples that illustrate how the genre became an advocate for the Civil Rights Movement. The program is sponsored by Essex Library Association, Granby Public Library, Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, Goshen Public Library, and Mansfield Public Library.

Galen’s goal is to offer an understanding and appreciation of jazz and its historical importance. A recording artist, composer, arranger, and educator, his performance portfolio includes such greats as Billy Taylor, Sonny Phillips, Gwen Guthrie, Jimmy Heath, Melba Moore, and Sun Ra.

This virtual program on Zoom is free and open to the public. For more information or to register, visit www.youressexlibrary.org or call the Essex Library at 860-767-1560.