Barry Harris: The Spirit of Bebop

Pianist Barry Harris has been a pivotal figure on the American jazz scene for decades. Originally from Detroit, Harris was well-known to many New York-based jazz players before he moved to the Big Apple in the ‘60s. He played with Coleman Hawkins and Cannonball Adderley, and was a close friend of Thelonious Monk. This video is both a biography of Harris and something of a bop primer. Harris is definitely one of the most influential remaining bebop artists; his knowledge of the music of Bud Powell and Charlie Parker, as well as that of Monk, is encyclopedic, and he remains, at 70 years of age, a stylish and articulate pianist. As the video points out, he's also been an important influence in New York City via his Jazz Cultural Center, where he has taught for many years. The Spirit of Bebop is a fitting tribute to Harris, who is not only an important jazz player but also an inspiring teacher and an all-around good guy. Aud: H, C, P. (P. Van Vleck)