Harlem in Montmartre: Notes on the French Contribution to Jazz

Charles Hobson, producer of the PBS Great Performances program Harlem in Montmartre, brings to The New School the story of the jazz age in Paris between the First and Second World Wars, a fascinating but neglected piece of African American history. Inspired by William A. Shacks book of the same title, his documentary contains rare archival performance footage of James Europe, Josephine Baker, Sidney Bechet, Bricktop, Eugene Bullard, Django Reinhardt, and many more.


Using photographs and film clips from the 1920s and 30s, Mr. Hobson discusses his film and the extraordinary role played by French artists and intellectuals in advancing the acceptance of jazz as a serious art form. Fridays @ One is supported by a bequest in memory of Estelle Tolkin. Sponsored by the Institute for Retired Professionals.

Location: Theresa Lang Community and Student Center, Arnhold Hall, 55 West 13th Street, 2nd floor.
02/19/2010 1:00 p.m.