Constantly in reverence of his predecessors while remaining innovative in his own right, Winard Harper has become one of the most celebrated drummers in jazz. Critics have written that he is as pleasing to watch as he is to hear. “As tasteful a drummer as one could ask for,” according to Jeff Kaliss of JazzTimes. Harper’s first major gig was with Dexter Gordon in 1982, followed shortly thereafter with Johnny Griffin. It wasn’t long before his drumming skills captured the attention of Betty Carter. He spent four years working with Ms. Carter, honing his sense of showmanship, and was an integral part of Dr. Billy Taylor’s Trio for over two decades beginning in the 1990’s. His vibrant nonet Jeli Posse has appeared across the United States, from Yoshi’s to the Kennedy Center, and their last CD was quick to hit number one on the JazzWeekcharts.

“Amandla!: A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony”
Recalling the role of music as a source of inspiration and power during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Among those interviewed: Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela.

Through a chronological history of the South African liberation struggle, this documentary cites examples of the way that music was used in the fight for freedom. Songs united those who were being oppressed and gave those fighting a way to express their plight. The music consoled those incarcerated, and created an effective underground form of communication inside the prisons.—Sujit R. Varma