Drummer Ralph Peterson Jr. assembles an all-star group to pay tribute to The Jazz Messengers, the prolific big band collective led by his mentor, the late Art Blakey. Marking the 100th year of Blakey’s birth with selections from a new recording, The Messenger Legacy will feature Peterson on percussion, trombonist Robin Eubanks, saxophonist Bill Pierce, bassist Essiet Essiet, pianist Zaccai Curtis, and trumpeter Brian Lynch.

30 years ago, Peterson was a 21-year-old emerging musician chosen to play by Blakey in the 1983 version of The Jazz Messengers’ two-drummer Big Band. Having learned first hand from the man himself Peterson remained the second drummer in the Big Band until Blakey’s passing. This group of musicians wishes to preserve, protect and honour the legacy of an artist who was much more than a bandleader to them all.

The Messenger Legacy also acknowledges those who have come on the scene since Art Blakey’s passing. These musicians often have a deep and direct connection with, and have been mentored by, Messenger alumni ensuring the legacy lives beyond those who had direct contact with Art Blakey.

Talk: ‘Art Blakey Legacy’

Saturday 23 November 3.45pm – 4.30pm
Caversham Room at Cadogan Hall  

Join Jean Toussaint and Ralph Peterson Jr. for a talk to celebrate Art Blakey in the year that marks 100 years since his birth. More info