Free Spirits features some of Canada’s top young musicians who celebrate the music of Geri Allen (1957-2017) and Mary Lou Williams (1910-1981). Pianist Teri Parker assembled the group in 2019 for a residency at Toronto’s Rex Jazz & Blues Bar. While the group pays tribute to Allen and Williams, two pianists whose intertwined musical legacies deserve greater appreciation and attention, it also looks ahead by honouring the tradition of daring innovation that Allen and Williams exemplify. With brand-new arrangements by Parker, Free Spirits plays with intensity and ingenuity, breathing new life into decades-old music and showcasing their own considerable improvisatory gifts.
Thursday, 16 September, 4:30pm, GJF in the Parks, Mollison Park, free
Friday, 17 September, 4:30pm, GJF in the Parks, Brant Park, free
Saturday, 18 September, 2:30pm, GJF in the Parks, York Road Park, free
Purchase music for Teri Parker:
https://teriparkermusic.com/music