Angela and Joshua open Season Seven with an exposé on pianist, musicologist, and The First Lady of Jazz; Mary Lou Williams. This stunning artist’s impact crosses multiple genres from jazz to classical and sacred to bebop.  She navigates compositional shifts seamlessly all while providing the world of classical music with a much-needed approach to archival, analysis, and expansion to welcome those previously left out of the industry.  An undisputed artistic prodigy, Williams’ expansive influence on Black music positions her as one of the 20th century’s most revolutionary musicologists.

Featured Music:

• “Night Life” - Mary Lou Williams, composer/performer
• “Sagittarius” and “Aquarius”  from Zodiac Suite - Mary Lou Williams, composer
• “People in Trouble” and "One" from Mary Lou’s Mass - Mary Lou Williams, composer

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