The Pace Report: "Celebrating 50 Years of Capra Black" The Billy Harper Interview
Welcome to this very special edition of The Pace Report featuring saxophonist and educator Billy Harper.
2023 Is a very important year for musician Billy Harper. This year he recently turned 80 and his debut album "Capra Black" was released 50 years ago. The album featured Jimmy Owens, Dick Griffin, Julian Presister, George Cables, Reggie Workman, Billy Cobham, Elvin Jones, and Warren Smith.
Mr. Harper has been a very important staple on the Jazz scene for well over 60 years. The Houston, Texas native was exposed to Jazz music by his Uncle Earl. Earl was classmates with trumpeter Kenny Durham who turned him on to Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, and Lester Young. At the age of 12 he received his first saxophone and was influenced by saxophonist Don Wilkerson. After he earned his degree in music at North Texas University and playing local gigs in Houston and Dallas he decided to move to New York City where he'd pursue music full-time.
He's been part of some very important groups ranging from Max Roach, Art Blakey, Lee Morgan, the Thad Jones and Mel Lewis Big Band, Freddie Hubbard, Gil Evans, and Randy Weston. In addition to him being in The Cookers, Billy has kept his quintet together for 50 years. Recently he played with is group at the famed Dizzy's in New York City featuring Freddie Hendrix on trumpet, Francesca Tanksley on piano, Ben Young on bass, and Aaron Scott on drums.
Billy and I sat down and talked candidly about the legacy of his debut album, reflect on his musical mentors and bandleaders, shares his wisdom on musical education, and his role as a composer and bandleader.
For more info Billy's upcoming tour dates or to order his music, please visit him on social media via CapraBlackBH and Facebook.com/BillyHarper
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