2012 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Drums Competition
Monday night’s gala concert at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theatre for the 2012 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition was amazing. I’ve been lucky to attend several of the concerts over the years with my good friend and jazz devotee Bill Paley and his beautiful wife Alison, who support the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz. It is always one of the hippest audiences at a musical event in Washington. This year the competition centered on drums and we saw the three finalists compete with Jamison Ross winning the top prize. United States Secretary of State Madeline Albright, the first female Secretary of the State, was also honored with a Celebration of Women, Music, and Diplomacy. In her remarks at the concert Secretary Albright commented how jazz and rock & roll were great diplomats for our country. Aretha Franklin paid tribute to Secretary Albright singing Respect and My Funny Valentine. The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz has done so much for so many with their educational programs. It was a great pleasure to talk with Herbie Hancock, who is indeed a national treasure, and is the chairman of the Thelonious Monk Institute.
Thelonious Monk International Jazz Drums Competition winner Jamison Ross with Govinda Gallery Director Chris Murray. Copyright ©Carlotta Hester. All Rights Reserved.
Thelonious Monk Institute Chairman Herbie Hancock and Chris Murray. Copyright ©Carlotta Hester. All Rights Reserved.
Gala co-host and photographer Tipper Gore with Chris Murray. Copyright ©Carlotta Hester. All Rights Reserved.
