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Book Reviews: James Reese Europe..Jazz Lieutenant..2005 By Ronald Herd II
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Posted by: adminon Wednesday, February 15, 2006 - 05:58 AM |
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By John Gilbert
This is a well documented account of the life of James Europe who was a
war hero and instrumental in advancing the cause of Black musicians in
the heyday of racism and bigotry.
Europe formed the first black musician's union, known as The Clef Club.
His was the first black orchestra to record and to play at Carnegie
Hall.
While in service with the army in the first world war, James Europe was
the victim of a gas attack while in battle. He led the band of New Yorks
15th. National Guard Unit known as The Harlem Hellfighters. The unit was
reputed to be the most decorated regiment in WW1.
James Reese Europe was a true pioneer of black jazz and influenced the
works of Ellington, Basie and others of import.
At the age of 39 Europe was tragically murdered by a member of his band
and his brilliance was left tragically on a Boston hospital bed, his
legacy lives on, however, to this day.
This book is illustrated magnificently by Ron Herd in the folk art
genre.
Hubie Blake described Europe as being among the major influences in both
jazz and the advancement of the black musician in society.
George Gershwin, as a child would sit outside the Harlem club where
Europe was performing and no doubt was hugely influenced by his
artistry.
This is a book of historical significance in both jazz, race relations
and heroism.
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