Jazz News: Matthew Whitaker in Denver, another win for Annie Booth, new Medeski, Martin & Wood documentary

This is Jazz News, a look at what’s news in jazz, music, and the arts.

It was cool to have pianist Matthew Whitaker in Denver for a private gig at the Denver Botanic Gardens last week. Whitaker’s inspiring personal story of overcoming physical disability and accomplishing so much artistically has also been covered by CBS 60 Minutes. The Facebook group Denver Jazz Scene has pictures! (SOURCE: Denver Jazz Scene)

A nice win for Colorado-based pianist-composer-bandleader Annie Booth. The International Alliance for Women in Music named Booth and 10 others in their “Search for New Music” competition. Booth was recognized for her composition for a large jazz ensemble called “Cactus Blossom.” It was named for some of the flora found in the high desert of the San Luis Valley. (SOURCE: IAWA-International Alliance for Women in Music)

Medeski, Martin & Wood have released a one-hour and 17-minute documentary about their creative process called “Not Not Jazz.”

The trio is shown at Allaire Studios in New York’s Catskills, a retreat that offers more creative possibilities. They’re playing outside in the elements, and playing off of each other. Directed by music documentarian Jason Miller. See the trailer clip below.

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