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Art Blakey: The Jazz Messenger 12A* + Introduction

Part of EFG London Jazz Festival

,Barbican Cinema 3
An illustration of Art Ensemble of Chicago performing

This classic documentary examines the musical career and legacy of Art Blakey, legendary drummer and bandleader of the Jazz Messengers.

“There is no one who has brought so many musicians to jazz,” says Dizzy Gillespie of drummer Art Blakey, whose Jazz Messenger horn section included, down the years, everyone from Clifford Brown to Wynton Marsalis.

This film includes tributes to Blakey from ex-band members including Bobby Watson, Jean Toussaint and Terrence Blanchard, all of whom joined and graduated from the “Art Blakey University.” There are interviews with the man himself, and footage of him working with an expanded band in London, then back in New York scouting possible new Messengers at a club in Greenwich Village, and introducing a new group at another venue on the Upper West Side.

Director Dick Fontaine introduces his film with John Cumming, who produced Art Blakey's London residency.  

Tagged with: Cinema EFG London Jazz Festival

UK 1987 Dir Dick Fontaine 79 min video presentation

Barbican Cinema 3

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.