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Jimmy Heath lectures at the University of Connecticut

 Digital Record
Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11134/20002:20150002Heath

Dates

  • 1976 November 2

Summary

Composer and saxophonist Jimmy Heath lectured on 11/2/1976 (2015-0002/RR18).

Biographical / Historical

Heath (nicknamed "Little Bird" in honor Charlie Parker) came from a musical family. His brothers included drummer Albert Heath and bassist Percy Heath. His family was known for inviting visiting musicians into their home for dinner and lodging, this allowed Heath to meet many of his musicial idols growing up.

Heath's father bought him a saxophone when he was 14 and learned the instrument after 6 months. At the time of his 1976 lecture, he had composed over 60 compositions and described himself as a "musician's musician" because he was more interested in writing and performing rather than fame or fortune.

Heath, unlike other lecturers, warned students about the isolating and alienating nature traveling musicians encounter as well as the dangers of drug use among entertainers. Heath only spoke for about 15 minutes and left plenty of time for student questions. He appeared to relish having students pose questions to him.

Existence and Location of Originals

Original audio recordings reside in the University of Connecticut, Black Experience in the Arts Collection, Archives & Special Collections, UConn Library.

Repository Details

Part of the Archives and Special Collections, University of Connecticut Library Repository

Contact:
University of Connecticut Library
405 Babbidge Road Unit 1205
Storrs Connecticut 06269-1205 USA US
860-486-2524