The great pianist, composer and educator Geri Allen passed away yesterday from cancer. In 2010, Allen sat down at our Steinway B for an intimate solo studio session and conversation with former host of The Checkout, Josh Jackson.
In the program, Allen opens up about growing up in Detroit with two jazz-loving and encouraging parents, both of whom are honored during this session in musical fashion. Plus, she performs tributes to two of her piano heroes: Hank Jones and McCoy Tyner. And we hear Allen's thoughtful response to the question: "What does it mean to live with music?" We will all miss you, Geri.
Geri Allen - piano
Set List:
Ah Leu Cha (Charlie Parker)
Let Us Break Bread Together (Allen)
A Tribute to Hank Jones: Love For Sale/The Way/A Child Is Born (C. Porter/G. Allen/ T. Jones)
Flying Toward the Sound (Allen)
Recorded July 7, 2010 at WBGO.
Producer and Host: Josh Jackson
Recorded by Michael Downes