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AFRO-AMERICAN MUSIC INSTITUTE CELEBRATES 36 YEARS

BOYS CHOIR AFRICA SHIRTS
 
 
http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/building-today-for-tomorrow/x/267428

 Pain Relief Beyond Belief

                         http://www.komehsaessentials.com/                              

 

PITTSBURGH JAZZ

 

From Blakey to Brown, Como to Costa, Eckstine to Eldridge, Galbraith to Garner, Harris to Hines, Horne to Hyman, Jamal to Jefferson, Kelly to Klook; Mancini to Marmarosa, May to Mitchell, Negri to Nestico, Parlan to Ponder, Reed to Ruther, Strayhorn to Sullivan, Turk to Turrentine, Wade to Williams… the forthcoming publication Treasury of Pittsburgh Jazz Connections by Dr. Nelson Harrison and Dr. Ralph Proctor, Jr. will document the legacy of one of the world’s greatest jazz capitals.

 

Do you want to know who Dizzy Gillespie  idolized? Did you ever wonder who inspired Kenny Clarke and Art Blakey? Who was the pianist that mentored Monk, Bud Powell, Tad Dameron, Elmo Hope, Sarah Vaughan and Mel Torme? Who was Art Tatum’s idol and Nat Cole’s mentor? What musical quartet pioneered the concept adopted later by the Modern Jazz Quartet? Were you ever curious to know who taught saxophone to Stanley Turrentine or who taught piano to Ahmad Jamal? What community music school trained Robert McFerrin, Sr. for his history-making debut with the Metropolitan Opera? What virtually unknown pianist was a significant influence on young John Coltrane, Shirley Scott, McCoy Tyner, Bobby Timmons and Ray Bryant when he moved to Philadelphia from Pittsburgh in the 1940s?  Would you be surprised to know that Erroll Garner attended classes at the Julliard School of Music in New York and was at the top of his class in writing and arranging proficiency?

 

Some answers  can be gleaned from the postings on the Pittsburgh Jazz Network.

 

For almost 100 years the Pittsburgh region has been a metacenter of jazz originality that is second to no other in the history of jazz.  One of the best kept secrets in jazz folklore, the Pittsburgh Jazz Legacy has heretofore remained mythical.  We have dubbed it “the greatest story never told” since it has not been represented in writing before now in such a way as to be accessible to anyone seeking to know more about it.  When it was happening, little did we know how priceless the memories would become when the times were gone.

 

Today jazz is still king in Pittsburgh, with events, performances and activities happening all the time. The Pittsburgh Jazz Network is dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the places, artists and fans that carry on the legacy of Pittsburgh's jazz heritage.

 

WELCOME!

 

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Duke Ellington is first African-American and the first musician to solo on U.S. circulating coin

    MARY LOU WILLIAMS     

            INTERVIEW

       In Her Own Words
Hill Jordan, of Stanton Heights, speaks during a House State Government Committee hearing designed to gather input from residents on congressional redistricting Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021, in Bridgeville.
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Obituary: Pittsburgh trombonist Hill Jordan, who has died at 50, brought the music to the people

Nov. 5, 1970 - Oct. 27, 2020

You didn’t necessarily have to pay a cover to see “Hilly.”

If you walk the streets of Pittsburgh with any regularity, chances are you saw the big trombonist bringing the music to the people at a pop-up show.

Pittsburgh musician Hill Jordan, a mover and shaker on the scene for decades, died Wednesday at 50 of unknown causes.

The trombonist, a nephew of Pittsburgh jazz legend Nelson Harrison, was the bandleader of Hill Jordan & Slide Worldwide and a founding member of funk/R&B band House of Soul. It wasn’t unusual for him to also turn up with reggae group The Flow Band and Afrobeat ensemble Afrika Yetu. Along with regular shows at Con Alma, Superior Motors and other clubs, he loved doing pop-up gigs outside of Millie’s Ice Cream, where he said the vibe was “up close & personal.”

“I can’t imagine the Pittsburgh jazz community without him,” said jazz singer Phat Man Dee. “He’s been on the scene as both an instrumentalist and an organizer for so long. He was always so kind and so supportive of artists coming up and he always spoke his mind.”

Reggie Watkins is among those on the receiving end of Jordan’s welcoming energy. Mr. Watkins, whose resume includes stints with Maynard Ferguson, Jason Mraz and Postmodern Jukebox, met Mr. Jordan at a jam session in Pittsburgh when he moved here in 1997.

“We hit it off big time in part because we were both jazz trombone players and around the same age,” he said. “Since I was new to town, Hill offered to meet up with me and show me around the scene. We met on the North Side and I parked my car and rode with him around Pittsburgh listening to music and talking shop. He took me to make the rounds on the jazz scene to multiple spots including James Street, The Crawford Grill, Fosters and The Too Sweet Lounge. This meant the world to me and I’ll always be grateful for him taking the time to welcome me to the community and treating me like a brother.”

“Thing about Hill Jordan is that he would put everyone on stage,” Derek Eff posted on Facebook. “You had to be decent, but he didn't keep a clique like most musicians do. Because of that, he created some amazing, spontaneous shows over the years.”

Mr. Jordan’s range of styles stretched to being a regular guest with Machete Kisumontao, a Puerto Rican riot salsa band.

“Hill was such a joyful person,” said Machete singer Gena Nieves Escoriaza. “Always with a cheerful disposition and ready to perform. The issues that naturally happen in gigs did not affect his mood. He would always be happy to play. He was a kind father, and he would bring his kids, Bryant and Isabella, as they are roughly about the same age as my daughter to band practice and gigs. There was a lot of love in all his interactions with everyone.”

Scrolling through Mr. Jordan’s Facebook posts reveals his interest in sports and politics but much of it is the trombonist expressing his appreciation for other musicians, many of them Pittsburgh greats, from Stanley Turrentine to Harold Betters.

Ms. Neives Escoriaza’s last encounter with Mr. Jordan was at a ceremony in 2020 to honor the passing of Pittsburgh-based African drummer Anicet Mundundu.

“He was playing his heart out with so many wonderful musicians honoring another great,” she said.

In September, Mr. Jordan posted a video of a joyous street parade that he took part in and noted, “Well yesterday I played my first REAL Pittsburgh Funeral parade. I’ve played music often at funerals for close friends & loved ones but never a full fledged Black, Soulful, get-all-the-way-down, honest, pour-your-heart out ‘Homegoing’ Party/Celebration with over 1,000+ people from the community out sharing love & memories of their dearly departed who has gone to be with Jesus which is why we celebrate!!!”

Responding to the outpouring for Mr. Jordan on social media, Richard Gartner, a Pittsburgh musician and yoga instructor, posted, “It's great to see how much Hill is loved. The last time I played a show with him was a speakeasy-style gig. He could play. Even more important than that, he could tell stories. I listened to tales about jazz legends and clubs, stories he was told as a kid. I had never heard any of it, and I could have listened to him all night.”

This story will be updated.

First Published October 28, 2021, 3:15pm

Views: 129

Replies to This Discussion

My sincerest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Hill Jordan. Gone too soon and will be missed. RWG Hilly.

 

Hill Jordan Pittsburgh, PA, Obituary, Death

Death: Hill Jordan Obituary – Hill Jordan of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who was a prolific musician has reportedly died unexpectedly leaving family and loved ones in grief. Hill’s passing was announced on October 27, 2021.

Excellent musician, Hill Jordan of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has passed away suddenly. Hill was an advocate of culture and art Details surrounding his cause of death is not known to us at this time. More details on this publication will be updated upon confirmation.

Sharing on Hill Jordan’s Passing

Joe Ancona – When I lived in Pittsburgh I met some of the most wonderful, creative and inspired people. I spent a lot of time with this guy – Mr Hill Jordan – the big man! One of the sweetest people anywhere – this guy would and did give the shirt off of his back many times for many people. He bailed me out one night when i was in a jam and didn’t know who else to call. He drove several hours to pick me up when I was stranded and he was happy to help. Some nights we went all over Pittsburgh – way off the beaten path to see jazz – never had to worry – Hill had it all under control. He knew everyone and everyone knew and liked him and I was welcomed because of that. He encouraged me to get on stage and jam with musicians who were so much better than me and only gave positive critiques of my less than stellar playing. I’m shocked and so tremendously sad that I didn’t get to hear your voice one last time – I should have called or something. This is how I’m going to remember you my friend – a huge smile and a big laugh! Good bye Big Man – you were loved by many and will be missed tremendously! I’m better for having known you. Rest in peace brother.

Afrika Yetu Inc – Hill Jordan was not just prolific musician, he was our friend, our supporter, our motivator, we, at Afrika Yetu grew with him. Always full of creative ideas for better shows, innovative ways to bring something new to the stage, to share with Pittsburgh, and we know he held Pittsburgh dear to his heart.
An advocate of culture and art, he held us down musically with his horn or just the shakere, reminding us that he’s there. But he also held his close ones down, a true friend, who always checked in to see if “you’re good” Hill was the friend who reached out just because hadn’t heard from you after a while, big hearted friend who definitely gave you the gift of his time wholeheartedly.
Hill, your friends here are missing you already, the world is a colder place without you. Rest on Cool cat!! #Asante

Friendship Perk & Brew – We are saddened to learn of the passing of Hill Jordan. Hill was a loyal customer, a great friend, and an excellent musician. He sometimes jumped in to play with the bands performing at Perk & Brew. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing to us all. ❤️
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#friendshipperkandbrew #perkandbrew #pittsburghcafe #pittsburghcoffee #craftbeer #alcohol #food #foodie #restaurant #pittsburgh #pghfoodie #friendship #bloomfield #eatlocal #smallbusiness #breakfast #lunch #delicious #localfood #localbusiness #pittsburghcoffeehouse #photooftheday #hilljordan #restinpeace #musician

Kelsey Wooley Jumper – like so many, I’m thinking of fond memories with Hill Jordan. it was such a blessing to bring in 2020 with him and a great band, all of us gratefully unaware of what a rare opportunity it would be to share nights like this in the year ahead. Hill was a true champion of others and I’m honored to have felt that love from him. the city mourns the loss of a special man and gifted musician.

How Did Hill Jordan Die?

The question of how the life of Hill Jordan ended is being asked by many concerned individuals especially those that are close to the family. Nonetheless, it appears only little can be known for now pending when the family will make a definite statement on this.

Hill Jordan Obituary

Hill Jordan obituary details is yet to be noticed by us. Obituary information of the Hill will be updated upon confirmation. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this death. As usual, we will be following up on this and will serve you the update as soon as it becomes available.

Who Is Hill Jordan

From all indications a lot of people have begun to miss Hill Jordan. The torrent of tributes and condolences pouring in is a huge testimony to this. Many people has eulogized the deceased as an ideal friend, lovable and trustworthy. Friends and relatives alike are singing the praise of Hill as they recall the wonderful time they shared with the fellow whom they continue to describe as a rare gem.

Hill Jordan Funeral Service

The remains of Hill Jordan will be committed to the mother Earth on a date to be decided upon by the family. The interment, we are told, will be witnessed by the immediate family and selected persons among friends and colleagues of the deceased.

Meanwhile, you may have your say on this unfortunate demise of Hill by dropping your comments in the comment section. Your views are most welcome.

Obituary: Pittsburgh trombonist Hill Jordan, who has died at 50, brought the music to the people

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
 8 hours ago

Cover picture for the articleYou didn’t necessarily have to pay a cover to see “Hilly.”. If you walk the streets of Pittsburgh with any regularity, chances are you saw the big trombonist bringing the music to the people at a pop-up show. Pittsburgh musician Hill Jordan, a mover and shaker on the scene...


Hill Jordan Pittsburgh PA Obituary


Hill Jordan Pittsburgh PA Obituary

Hill Jordan Death Obituary: On October 28th, 2021 Deathsfanatics learned about the death of Hill Jordan through a Social Media post. He was a Pittsburgh’s most talented jazz musician. The cause of his death is still unknown at this time. But Hill left behind a legacy of lovable memories, and those who knew him will miss him greatly..

It is with a deep sense of loss and heavy heart that friends, family members, colleagues announced the unexpected passing away of Hill Jordan.

I’m sorry to share this sad news about Hill Jordan who passed away. Hill‘s family and friends are in a state of shock after the unexpected death of Hill Jordan.

Hill was loved by many and he will be missed dearly by all who knew him. He will be missed by all!

This death has caused a lot of friends and family to mourn. In that mourning spirit, concerned persons have taken to social media with tributes to the deceased as well as condolences for his grieving relatives.

Hill Jordan Cause Of Death

To the best of our knowledge, At the time of this publication, no cause of death has been disclosed the circumstances surrounding his death have not been revealed. Whenever the family releases information about the deceased, it will be made available to the public.

It is our prayer that God grants the strength and courage to those grieving this loss. There is no feeling more difficult than losing someone dear to you. In light of this death, we send our thoughts and prayers to the entire family.

Torrent of Tributes & Condolences

Social media timelines are flooded in remembrance, sharing tributes and condolence over the passing of Hill Jordan. It is with a deep sense of loss that they say goodbye to Hill Jordan who died unceremoniously.

The world will surely miss him dearly as he has left them with many wonderful memories to cherish for the rest of their lives. Death may have taken away Hill Jordan from this world, but it could never take his love out of people’s hearts.

Just heard of the passing of Hill Jordan RIP 🙏🏽 my condolences to his family and friends.

Hill Jordan Obituary

An obituary has been released for Hill Jordan His family and friends are in our prayers during this difficult time, He will be missed by all those who knew him and were lucky enough to have been friends with him. but unfortunately, we have not yet received any updates about funeral arrangements for Hill Jordan.

Please feel free to share your memories of Hill in the comments below or visit our Facebook page for more information about how you can help support Hill‘s family during this tragic time.

Tributes To Hill Jordan

The news of Hill Jordan’s death has made friends, family, and loved ones extremely sad. I don’t believe life is scary at all. I like it because it’s like receiving a relaxing massage after a long, stressful day.

Every journey must come to an end. The deceased sadly had to end her journey on earth. Please accept our condolences during this time of sorrow. I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of your loved one.

Hill Jordan Funeral Service

Funeral Service of Hill Jordan: Details of the deceased burials, funerals, and other related ceremonies would rightfully be published by the family of the deceased in their chosen online platform.

If you have any concerns about this publication, do not hesitate to contact us an email via deathfanatics@gmail.com

Hill Jordan Pittsburgh Obituary, Death – Hill Jordan Has Died



Further Reading:

Hill Jordan Death – Obituary – Hill Jordan of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania passed on October 25, 2021. Jordan was one of Pittsburgh’s most talented jazz musicians.  Hill was a prominent figure in Pittsburgh jazz.

A devastating loss to the Pittsburgh music scene. Our deepest condolences to the family of Hill Jordan, one of Pittsburgh’s most talented jazz musicians. From Shadow Lounge to Club Cafe to Con Alma his music blanketed the Pittsburgh landscape. Rest in Power

”Hill Jordan was not just prolific musician, he was our friend, our supporter, our motivator, we, at Afrika Yetu grew with him. Always full of creative ideas for better shows, innovative ways to bring something new to the stage, to share with Pittsburgh, and we know he held Pittsburgh dear to his heart.
An advocate of culture and art, he held us down musically with his horn or just the shakere, reminding us that he’s there. But he also held his close ones down, a true friend, who always checked in to see if “you’re good” Hill was the friend who reached out just because hadn’t heard from you after a while, big hearted friend who definitely gave you the gift of his time wholeheartedly.
Hill, your friends here are missing you already, the world is a colder place without you. Rest on Cool cat!! #Asante…”

”We all know Hill Jordan was a great musician, but if you were lucky enough to know him personally, you know he was also a wonderful mentor and friend. I am so heartbroken by the news of his passing, and I will miss his calls, messages and most of all making music together. Rest Peacefully, my friend….”

”RIP Hill Jordan – thank you for bringing me into the music back in the day when I was still a teenager and for your support of the Con Alma vision these recent years. Your physical presence will be greatly missed man….”

”We are saddened to learn of the passing of Hill Jordan. Hill was a loyal customer, a great friend, and an excellent musician. He sometimes jumped in to play with the bands performing at Perk & Brew. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing to us all….”

”When I lived in Pittsburgh I met some of the most wonderful, creative and inspired people. I spent a lot of time with this guy – Mr Hill Jordan – the big man! One of the sweetest people anywhere – this guy would and did give the shirt off of his back many times for many people. He bailed me out one night when i was in a jam and didn’t know who else to call. He drove several hours to pick me up when I was stranded and he was happy to help. Some nights we went all over Pittsburgh – way off the beaten path to see jazz – never had to worry – Hill had it all under control. He knew everyone and everyone knew and liked him and I was welcomed because of that. He encouraged me to get on stage and jam with musicians who were so much better than me and only gave positive critiques of my less than stellar playing. I’m shocked and so tremendously sad that I didn’t get to hear your voice one last time – I should have called or something. This is how I’m going to remember you my friend – a huge smile and a big laugh! Good bye Big Man – you were loved by many and will be missed tremendously! I’m better for having known you. Rest in peace brother….”

”We are very sad to hear the news of Hill Jordan’s passing. Hill was a prominent figure in the Pittsburgh jazz scene as long as anyone can remember and a big supporter of Con Alma since we opened. Whether playing or just around for the hang we will miss his joyful presence. Rest In Peace Hill….”

”Right before we went on to play our next set, it came to my attention that Hill Jordan has passed on. Hill was one of the first people who I played with semi-regularly after I graduated and he was always supportive of me. He spent so much of his time supporting young musicians and I will always be grateful to him and my memories of him. RIP Mr. Jordan, Pittsburgh will miss you….”

”Damn…Rest In Peace, Hill Jordan. He was one of the first artist in this city to support me as a spoken word artist who was just getting into the scene in the early 2000’s. Early Shadow Lounge days are filled with too many memories with Hill, many shows were improv and we always connected and flowed effortlessly. Wow…In lieu of flowers, the information would be given by the Jordan family. If you have any important suggestions on this, kindly contact this website admin via E-mail, alertsoceity@gmail.com

A Great friend, a great bandleader, a great community organizer, and a great father. Very Sorry

There is a Hill Jordan Memorial Fund to help with final expenses at the following link:

https://gofund.me/064a68b4

Funeral service for Hill Jordan will be held at East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 11:00 am.

NOV 5 AT 5 PM – NOV 6 AT 1 PM

Hill Jordan - Memorial Concert and Funeral Service

Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Hill Jordan - Memorial Concert and Funeral Service
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Going
Invite

Details

69 people responded
Event by Dubravka Bencic, Oba Elie Kihonia and 4 others
Duration: 20 hr
Public  · Anyone on or off Facebook
MEMORIAL CONCERT:
FRIDAY - 11/05/2021
Kelly Strayhorn Theater
5941 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
5 PM Doors open
5:30 to 8 PM - Music Performances
- Chronological showcase of Hill Jordan's musical career
- Jam Session to follow at another location
FUNERAL SERVICE:
SATURDAY- 11/06/2021
East Liberty Presbyterian Church
116 South Highland Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
10 AM - Doors open (until 1 PM)
11 AM - Funeral Mass
FUNERAL MARCH to follow Funeral Mass, outside of Church.
HILL JORDAN MEMORIAL AND FUNERAL FUND (by Afrika Yetu):
The event is free and open to everyone following KST COVID 19 protocol.
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