Carl Grubbs and Friends conduct music/dialogue events centering around the work of John Coltrane. This project reflects our belief that conversation is a good way to expand the links between artist and audience, and our belief that music - Coltrane's music in particular - has the ability to shed light on human experience in unique ways. The events include performances of John Coltrane compositions interspersed with the discussion segments. In addition to playing the music, the group presents some information about the music and some central ideas about its qualities. We also elicit audience input. A dialogue develops that focuses on the meaning and significance of the music as experienced by audience members. The music can also become a context for examination of particular civic issues that are especially pertinent to that audience.
The Coltrane Dialogues photo by Jed Hickson
In presenting and discussing Coltrane's music, the group draws both from Carl Grubbs' vast knowledge and experience and from the scholarly work of tenor saxophonist Salim Washington, a professor of music at Brooklyn College and author of a doctoral dissertation for Harvard University entitled "Coltrane, Jazz and American Culture". Pianist John Kordalewski, who has a doctorate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, is a published author on the subject of dialogic education. He contributes to the planning and facilitating of these events.
