On October 11, National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Amina Claudine Myers delivered a powerful solo concert at Frederick Community College’s JBK Theater, presented by the Frederick Experimental Music Association (FEMA).
The evening was part concert, part historical reflection—a sonic journey through gospel, jazz, and rhythm and blues that illuminated Myers’ unparalleled artistry and deep personal connections to her honorees. A founding member of Chicago’s legendary Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), Myers collaborated extensively with trumpeter Lester Bowie, performing in his Quintet and New York Organ Ensemble. Her work with Bowie’s From the Root to the Source brought her into creative partnership with Fontella Bass, the powerhouse vocalist best known for the soul classic “Rescue Me,” who also made influential recordings with the Art Ensemble of Chicago and later became a force in gospel music.
The sold-out performance honored these collaborators while showcasing Myers’ own groundbreaking artistry. The concert was supported by the Ausherman Family Foundation, Kate Costlow, John D’Amore, Anonymous, and Plamondon Hospitality Group.
More at www.pointofdeparture.org/FEMA.html.
Photo Credit: Lisa Sheirer