American Cultural Center to Present the Fourth Episode of "Jazz" a Film by Ken Burns
On November 28 (Friday), from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., the AIT American Cultural Center will show "The True Welcome," the fourth episode of Ken Burns' documentary "Jazz" as part of its film program on the history of jazz. The program examines the origins of Jazz and the cultural and historical events that relate directly with the music.
This episode explores how jazz lifts the spirits of America during the Great Depression and the birth of the Swing Era. In Harlem, people find solace in a new dance called the Lindy Hop, and in the big band music played by Chick Webb and Fletcher Henderson. At the same time, pianists Fats Waller and Art Tatum spread their own very different brands of musical joy. Despite the tattered economy, both Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington prosper. In addition to setting new standards with the trumpet, Armstrong reinvents American singing, while Ellington's sophisticated music and elegant personal style help change the perceptions and expectations of an entire race. This episode also recounts the ups and downs of Benny Goodman's big band business and describes how, during one performance at the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles, the Swing Era was born.
A poster show entitled "The King of Jazz: Louis Armstrong" and relevant books and materials will also be displayed in the American Cultural Center during the screening of the film.
Over the next 3 months (12/11/2003 through 2/26/2004), the remaining 6 parts will be shown every other week on Thursday evenings. The complete film program schedule, with episode summaries, is available on request.
The American Cultural Center is located at Suite 2101, 21F, No. 333, Keelung Road, Section 1, Taipei. The program is open to the public without charge. Pre-registration is suggested to ensure a seat and an information packet on the relevant episode. To indicate your interest, obtain a schedule, or more information on this series, please contact Morris Huang at 2723-3959 ext. 215; or Patricia Wang ext. 285; fax 2725-2644; e-mail:taipei@mail.ait.org.tw.
This episode explores how jazz lifts the spirits of America during the Great Depression and the birth of the Swing Era. In Harlem, people find solace in a new dance called the Lindy Hop, and in the big band music played by Chick Webb and Fletcher Henderson. At the same time, pianists Fats Waller and Art Tatum spread their own very different brands of musical joy. Despite the tattered economy, both Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington prosper. In addition to setting new standards with the trumpet, Armstrong reinvents American singing, while Ellington's sophisticated music and elegant personal style help change the perceptions and expectations of an entire race. This episode also recounts the ups and downs of Benny Goodman's big band business and describes how, during one performance at the Palomar Ballroom in Los Angeles, the Swing Era was born.
A poster show entitled "The King of Jazz: Louis Armstrong" and relevant books and materials will also be displayed in the American Cultural Center during the screening of the film.
Over the next 3 months (12/11/2003 through 2/26/2004), the remaining 6 parts will be shown every other week on Thursday evenings. The complete film program schedule, with episode summaries, is available on request.
The American Cultural Center is located at Suite 2101, 21F, No. 333, Keelung Road, Section 1, Taipei. The program is open to the public without charge. Pre-registration is suggested to ensure a seat and an information packet on the relevant episode. To indicate your interest, obtain a schedule, or more information on this series, please contact Morris Huang at 2723-3959 ext. 215; or Patricia Wang ext. 285; fax 2725-2644; e-mail:taipei@mail.ait.org.tw.