NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Strayhorn: An Illustrated Life, will be the featured exhibit at the New Rochelle Public Library for the month of February, 2016. The original exhibit of photographs and artifacts tracing the extraordinary career of musician Billy Strayhorn is based on a recently-released book of the same title, Strayhorn: An Illustrated Life, written by A. Alyce Claerbaut and David Schlesinger. In addition to material taken from the book the exhibit features some never-before-seen artifacts from Strayhorn’s home, including art work and personal items. Designed by Jesse Sanchez and curated by Leslie Demus, Strayhorn’s niece, and Theresa Kump Leghorn, president of the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, the exhibit celebrates the centennial of the birth of the American jazz composer, pianist, lyricist, and arranger. It was originally displayed in the Museum of Arts and Culture at New Rochelle High School, and was made possible by the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence, the Billy Strayhorn Foundation and the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, with funding from ArtsWestchester.
The award-winning documentary film, Billy Strayhorn: Lush Life, will be shown in the library’s Ossie Davis Theater on Sunday, February 21st at 3:00 pm. Director Robert Levi will introduce the film and answer questions following the viewing. From the 1940s to the 1960s, Billy Strayhorn was one of the forces behind the sound of the renowned Duke Ellington Orchestra. The film tells the story of this pioneering African American composer, arranger and pianist. Strayhorn helped produce a body of work that has no rival in originality and range—from unforgettable tunes and jazz melodies to orchestral suites and soundtracks. He was the sole composer of many classic compositions, including the Ellington theme song, “Take The ‘A’ Train,” and the widely recorded “Lush Life.” Yet at the time of his death in 1967 at age 51 from esophageal cancer, most people were unfamiliar with his musical accomplishments and genius. Today, historians and scholars agree that Billy Strayhorn remains one of the most under-recognized American composers in history.
Glenda Davenport, the popular jazz vocalist, and the Hiroshi Yamazaki Trio will perform at the exhibit reception following the film, at 5:00 pm. The program of standards will include the music of Strayhorn and Ellington. Discovered at the World Famous Apollo Theater’s Amateur Night, Ms. Davenport has performed in such legendary venues as The Village Gate, Birdland and Caramoor. She performs regularly at jazz clubs throughout the tri-state area, and has recorded two CDs: “Sophisticated Lady” and “More Than You Know.” The free reception is open to the public and is made possible by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library.