Spirit of Life Ensemble

Sunday, November 05, 2023 @ 4:00pm

William Paterson University - Shea Center for Performing Arts
300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ 07470

This multi-horn Jersey City-based ensemble, founded by percussionist David Daoud Williams, is heavily grounded in the loft scene of the 1970s. This is jazz with a world beat, paying homage to the all-important African roots of jazz. The band has had numerous jazz legends as its members, including Archie Shepp, RandyWeston, Pharoah Sanders, Eddie Henderson, Kenny Barron, and Joe Ford. The ensemble has deep Paris roots; it is regularly heard in the city’s jazz clubs and has collaborated with many great French jazz musicians. This performance is part of a yearlong celebration of the American artist, activist, Paterson native and WP alumnus Ben Jones, in collaboration with New Jersey City University and funded in part by a Mellon Foundation grant.

Each Jazz Room concert is preceded by Sittin’ In Meet-the-Artist session in Shea 101 Recital Hall one hour prior to performances. Sittin’ In is free to all ticket holders. This gives audience members the rare opportunity to meet and interact with the artist of the day in an intimate setting.

Admission: $15 General Public • $12 WP community & senior citizens • $8 Non-WP students • WP Students admitted free with ID • $5 additional charge on show day per ticket.

This event is supported by the Mellon Foundation