Kevin Harris presents: Roots, Water, and Sunlight – A Contemporary Octet Expedition through the Expressions of James Baldwin

Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist Kevin Harris interweaves traditional and contemporary music styles, visual arts, electronic media, science, and language, distinguishing his music and rendering each performance a unique experience, meant to activate the audience’s senses and personal curiosity.

Harris’ most innovative project as a composer is “Roots, Water and Sunlight: A Contemporary Octet Expedition through the Expressions of James Baldwin”. This three-movement piece uses powerful spoken-word samples from American author James Baldwin as the foundation for a wind octet accompanied by a rhythm section and digital instrumentation.

In this short video, Kevin Harris explains the creative dynamics behind his composition, and helps audiences contextualize the experience of hearing James Baldwin’s teachings set against a shifting sonic landscape.