Celebrated percussionist Thurman Barker will introduce audiences to inspiring composers exploring their importance and context in the canons of American musical history. His lecture examines who was considered the first Jazz composer and the influence of their work on contemporary composers today. The narrative intertwines historical context with Barker’s own orchestral compositions, drawing on his experience writing for Chamber Orchestra and work with orchestras in Chicago and New York. The talk will be interspersed with performances from Barker’s trio’s latest release IMPACT!, an introduction to Barker’s music for chamber orchestra. This privileged event gives audiences the opportunity to engage with music and the musicians through live performance and a special talk back with the artist.
About the Artist
Thurman Barker is a celebrated percussionist who built his career on innovation. As a professional musician, composer, and college professor, he brings endless passion and decades of experience together to entertain, educate, and expand the horizons of his art. Since creating Uptee Records in the early 80s, Barker has previously released six recordings as a leader. In 2016, Barker began writing for Chamber Orchestra. Barker’s wealth of knowledge was built through his association with countless incredible collaborators. Most notable musical experiences have been with the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM). As a charter member of the group, Barker first appeared in AACM productions with Joseph Jarman’s pioneering ensembles. He then went on to record and play with many members, including Dr. Muhal Richard Abrams, Amina Claudine Meyers, Anthony Braxton, Leroy Jenkins, Roscoe Mitchell, and Henry Threadgill. After moving to New York in the late 70s, Barker worked and recorded with Sam Rivers and Cecil Taylor. Thurman Barker became a Professor Emeritus of Bard College in Music/Jazz Studies in June 2021. He is a recipient of a 2022 NYSCA award for composition as well as numerous Meet the Composer grants.