As a woman, having functioned in the field for some decades now, it is clear that my perspective/work/contribution, is most potent when it acknowledges my make up as a complete human being, and my womanhood is at the core of that. Pianist/Composer Geri Allen
For almost 30 years, KCSM has set aside a day of programming to honor the women that make the music: instrumentalists, composers, band leaders, producers. Today, March 8, 2020 we proudly carry on that tradition.
On March 8, 1908, 15,000 women took to the streets in New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. The day underscores the aims of that long ago protest and has set a “tone” for the subsequent decades: Unity, Celebration, Reflection, Advocacy and Action sum up what the day, and that initial protest, were founded on. And what better music is there, than Jazz, to reflect that call for unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy, and indeed, action.
And since the entire month of March–via a 1980 presidential order by then President Jimmy Carter–is designated as Women’s History Month, KCSM will continue to feature the great female artists who have contributed to this music. For the month we’ll put the spotlight on a Jazz foremother, or a woman who has perhaps eluded your notice, working steadily as a valued “sideman.” Jazz is a music of tradition and innovation, and we’ll share the new voices as well as the older established female artists. Stay tuned and thank you for your support!