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God’s Trombones
Harlem Stages presents Craig Harris’ interpretation of the classic collection of poems.
Craig Harris
Inspired by James Weldon Johnson’s 1927 collection of poems, Craig Harris’ new interpretation of God’s Trombones comes to Harlem Stage’s historic Gatehouse.
“I’m always looking for new stories to recast,” Harris says, “and I remembered God’s Trombones from junior high.”
Johnson’s 1927 collection of poems mimic the rhythm and cadence of gospel preachers, and God’s Trombones focuses on universal spirituality. “For me, the sound of the trombone is the closest thing to the human voice,” says Harris. “It can literally speak to everyone.”
“What audiences will take away from this performance is the magnificence of the music, which is informed and inspired by the text, says Harris. “That’s the emphasis; the text functions as an interlocutor to connect musical improvisation that crosses several genres, from funk and jazz to R&B, hip-hop and gospel.”
God’s Trombones features a talented array of players, including:
Vocals: LaTanya Hall, Gina Breedlove, Kevin Anthony, Trent Kendall
Brass Choir: Craig Harris, conductor/trombone; Bob Stewart, tuba; Joe Daley, euphonium; Alfred Patterson trombone; Curtis Fowlkes, trombone; Gary Valente, trombone
Marcus Strickland is one of the newest generations of musicians that is helping to push the legacy of jazz forward, which is central to Harlem’s artistic legacy.
Additional musicians: Adam Klipple, keyboards, Damon DueWhite, drums
Ticket info here.
Harlem Stage’s Harlem Stride series presents performances by the newest generation of musicians helping to push the legacy of jazz forward and extend Harlem’s artistic heritage. Presented in partnership with the Center for Jazz Studies at Columbia University and the Columbia/Harlem Jazz Project.