Michigan's Motown sound is legendary, of course, but the state has also produced some of the country's most significant jazz musicians and vocalists.
Through a multi-media presentation and live concert, a Grand Valley State University history professor will explore the lives and music of some of Michigan's great jazz artists, including Milt Jackson, Ron Carter, Kenny Garrett and the Jones brothers.
Craig Benjamin, assistant professor of history, will host an event, "Blues from the Motor City: Jazz Giants of Michigan," on Friday, February 16, in Loosemore Auditorium of the DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton St. in Grand Rapids. The event begins at 7 p.m.; it is free and open to the public. Part of GVSU's Black History Month celebration, the event is sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs. For more information, call (616) 331-2177.
After Benjamin's presentation, he will perform with Elgin Vines and Company. Benjamin moved to Grand Rapids from Australia in 2003. He was a professional jazz musician and music teacher in Australia for 25 years.
