Kansas City’s Charlie Parker History Tour Requires A Guide — And Imagination
Charlie Parker was born on Aug. 29, 1920. For three years now, Kansas City jazz organizations have marked his birthday week with a Charlie Parker Celebration, trying to increase hometown appreciation for the influential jazz saxophonist.
KCUR’s CJ Janovy reported on events this past weekend, which included UMKC students (from left) Max Levy, Joe Tesoro, Matt Brown and Phillip Hannah. The students study with UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance Assistant Professor and Co-Chair of UMKC Jazz Studies Dan Thomas; and William D. and Mary Grant/Missouri Professor of UMKC Jazz Studies Bobby Watson, Jr. Thomas hosted and lead the musical event at the gravesite. Read more…