Prez Fest March 14, 2010

The program starts with several free events: "The Legend Wall" - an exhibit of information about Art Blakey and a panel discussion about Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers' enduring influence on jazz. It will be moderated by a prominent jazz scholar and panelists will include several Jazz Messengers and an expert on Art Blakey and/or the "hard bop" era of Jazz. A presentation about Art Blakey and his drumming techniques by a well-known drummer may also be included. At 5:00 PM, Jazz Vespers - also free- takes place in the Sanctuary with music led by one of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. The Concert begins at 7:00 PM. with live performance of the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Jazz Messengers' bands preceded by a student band will perform the legendary compositions created by Art Blakey and the Messengers over the more than 30 years that various versions of the Messengers held forth.