Available virtually from October 22 to November 25
Tom Surgal | Documentary | USA | 2021 | 88m
Although the free jazz movement of the 1960s and ‘70s was much maligned in some jazz circles, its pioneers brilliant talents like Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, Sun Ra, Albert Ayler, and John Coltrane are today acknowledged as central to the evolution of jazz as America’s most innovative art form. Fire Music showcases the architects of this movement with incisive reflections by a number of the its key players, and a rich trove of archival footage conjuring the 1960s jazz scene. See https://www.firemusic.org/ for more information on the film and its makers.
"Crammed with exhilarating sounds, moving reminiscences and stimulating arguments that [free jazz] is not just music, but vital music… [It] highlights are incredibly well-curated archival footage and contemporary interviews that allow the viewer to briefly commune with some beautiful souls… This movie constituted a too-short heaven on earth. I’d binge on an expanded series, honestly." -Glenn Kenny, The New York Times *** NYT Critic’s Pick ***
"Fire Music sets a new benchmark. The film clearly lays out how the original wave of free jazz evolved from what came before and how, for a brief yet indelible period, yielded a wealth of music that's still unparalleled in its gritty intensity and deep spiritual resonance. Thanks to Tom Surgal, we have a record of what it felt like to be there." -Hank Shteamer, Rolling Stone
"Fire Music provides a concise, thoughtful account of the musical form which first blossomed in the late 1950s.The documentary does an excellent job of making the music come alive with its gripping performance footage and incisive interviews with many key players... The film should be on any serious music lover's must-see list." -Frank Scheck, Hollywood Reporter
Available online as a virtual screening from October 22nd to November 25 (tickets $11, good for 4 days).
COVID-19 Precautions:
Proof of double vaccination against COVID-19 is required to enter the building.
Masks are required at all times in the building.
We can't offer concessions at the moment (sorry!).
Outside food and drink is not allowed in the museum.
