Coltrane Mural Dedication

Please join us for the dedication of a new mural honoring American jazz saxophonist and composer John Coltrane. Designed by artist Ernel Martinez, the mural features several moments in the life of the 20th-century musical giant who lived in Philadelphia and whose influence transcends musical styles, genres, and cultural boundaries. To kick the event off, a workshop/listening session will be conducted by Dr. Anyabwile Love, Professor of African American Studies and coordinator of the John Coltrane Symposium. The event will include a special performance by the Alfie Pollitt Trio.

MURAL BY: Ernel Martinez

12:00 – 1:30 John Coltrane’s Music listening and Album cover designs 
This project led by an art educator will engage children and adults through six compositions of John Coltrane. The majority will highlight the music composed during his stay in Philadelphia. After a short discussion on the music and examples of album designs participants will be encouraged to design/illustrate an album cover. Participants will be provided with materials to design their own album covers from blank album sleeves.

1:30 – 3:00 The Alfie Pollitt Trio 
Alfie Pollitt is a master musician. He has performed and recorded with many of Philadelphia’s musical luminaries-including tours and recordings with Teddy Pendergrass. Mr. Pollitt considers John Coltrane and Coltrane’s pianist McCoy Tyner among his major influences. He has performed live many of Coltrane’s compositions including a stirring extended performance of “Giant Steps”. Mr. Pollitt and his Quartet were the closing performers of the first and 2nd annual John Coltrane Symposium here in Philadelphia. His roots in Philadelphia’s musical community and the community at large continues to be a huge drawing of followers to his concerts and performances. Aside from being a musician Mr. Pollitt is also an accomplished teacher and composer.

3:00 – 4:00 Mural Dedication

4:00 – 5:00 Sistahs Laying Down Hand Collective
John W. Coltrane tribute, “Taking Giant Steps”… with Sistahs Laying Down Hand Collective and special guest on Saxophone, Ibah Baskette. A rhythmic, vocal and poetry dedication, highly his musical  sacred journey. Truly A Love Supreme!!