Experience the thrill of modern jazz with Dr. Gridley in a captivating four-part lecture series! Dive into the sounds of iconic big bands as you journey through the groundbreaking music of Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Kenton, Gerald Wilson, and Maria Schneider. Enjoy in-depth listening and analysis that highlight the unique arrangements and standout soloists of these legendary ensembles. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, this series will deepen your appreciation of the artistry and innovation behind these unforgettable performances. Don’t miss this musical adventure!  This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Dizzy Gillespie's Big Bands of the 1940s

2. Stan Kenton's Big Bands of the 1950s and 1960s

3. Gerald Wilson's Big Bands of the 1960s

4. Maria Schneider's Big Bands of Today

Mark C. Gridley, Ph.D., is the author of Jazz Styles, America's most widely read jazz introduction, now in its eleventh edition and translated into six languages. An internationally recognized researcher and award-winning jazz flutist-saxophonist, he has toured extensively and conducted fieldwork across the Americas and Africa.

"Thank you Olli for offering Mark Gridley as a presenter. He’s exceptional and his presentations are the first ones I look for when I receive your catalog."- OLLI Patron