Jazzed Media will soon release Stan Kenton: Artistry in Rhythm Portrait of a Jazz Legend on April 12, 2011. The full-length DVD documentary coincides with the upcoming 100th birthday celebration of Stan Kenton. The project was put together by award winning jazz filmmaker Graham Carter and is produced in association with the Los Angeles Jazz Institute.

The DVD Stan Kenton: Artistry in Rhythm Portrait of a Jazz Legend showcases some great clips of the Kenton band spanning almost 40 years. Images and sounds of this groundbreaking band are peppered with first hand accounts of many prominent musicians, promoters and arrangers associated with Kenton and his band.

Although Kenton is now recognized as being a pioneer of the modern jazz big band, the video highlights the critical acclaim and distain earned by the band.

This video on DVD is beautifully done with charming recollections by notables such as Howard Rumsey, Dr. herb Wong, JoAnn Kenton, Audree, Kenton, Peter Erskine, Carl Saunders, Joel Kaye, Mike Vax, Bill Holman and Jack Costanzo.

For someone like myself who was only partially aware of Kenton’s music and legacy, it is very enlightening to learn the wealth of talent, which came through the band. June Christy, Maynard Ferguson, Kai Winding and Lee Konitz are just a few. In addition to the talent on the stage, legendary arrangers Bill Holman, Bill Russo, Lennie Niehaus, Gerry Mulligan and Pete Rugolo also wrote for the band.

Whether you are looking to learn more about Stan Kenton, view rare film and television performances or simply be entertained – Stan Kenton: Artistry in Rhythm Portrait of a Jazz Legend will not disappoint.

Stan Kenton: Artistry in Rhythm Portrait of a Jazz Legend
is available at jazzedmedia.com

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