Looking At: Jazz - The Jazz Swing Era November 8, 2006

Williamsburg Regional Library will host a free six-part film viewing, reading and discussion series called Looking At: Jazz, Americas Art Form. The series includes viewing of specially curated films on the history and styles of jazz in America.

Tonight's program features:
Benny Goodman: Adventures in the Kingdom of Swing

The life and music of Benny Goodman come alive in this documentary about the highly influential bandleader dubbed the "King of Swing." The film details the birth of the swing genre; Goodman's effect on racial borders; his family; and his storied career. Included are rare performance and studio rehearsal footage, home movies, rare audio tracks, commentary from Goodman's contemporaries and interviews with Goodman. This biography of musical legend Benny Goodman contains testimonials from various contemporaries and scholars, and offers clips of the man in performance.

Discussion to follow will be led by Harris Simon, instructor of music at the College of William and Mary and a noted local pianist and harmonica player.

Event submitted by Eventful.com on behalf of programs.