Jazz Sunday

Doran Nash and Mike Kessler • July 16, 2024

Welcome to Jazz Sunday at The Garden!


Today, we celebrate the rich history and transformative power of music. Among the four instruments in our small ensemble, we have the conga drum, which has played a significant role in jazz. Originating in Afro-Cuban culture, the conga drum became a cornerstone of Latin jazz in the 1930s and 1940s, thanks to pioneers like Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie. Their fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz harmonies created a vibrant new genre that continues to inspire.


Similarly, the steelpan instrument from Trinidad and Tobago exemplifies how repeated actions can lead to transformation. Born out of necessity, the steelpan emerged from everyday objects like oil drums and cookie tins, evolving into a unique musical instrument through persistent drumming.


Just as these instruments transformed through repeated actions, our spiritual practices can also lead to profound change.


This Jazz Sunday is made possible by the GLT’s extra funds to promote Indianapolis music at the Garden, thanks to the success of our Hogeye Navvy program. We aim to feature new and exciting Indianapolis artists quarterly, and we’d love to hear your suggestions! Please drop a comment with your feedback.


Enjoy the music and the journey of transformation it represents!

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