Night School #152: Thara Memory Tribute

Tonight on Night School, we pay tribute to Thara Memory. Thara’s impact on the Portland music community is without parallel. As a trumpeter, bandleader & jazz educator, his standard for excellence in music was nothing short of the ineffable. He has been recognized in many ways for his achievements & in 2013 was awarded a Grammy for his work w/ Esperanza Spaulding. 

Thara’s origin story is also fascinating. In 1970, he travelled from rural Florida to Portland & quickly immersed himself in the Albina culture. Bringing form to fledgling classrooms & band rehearsals, he would defy convention w/ his complex approach to jazz & funk. This work began while in his early twenties & developed broadly throughout his career. 

Tune in this evening as we examine a portrait of the artist as a young man, listening back to unreleased recordings from this early period. We’ll hear stories from the source among special guests. Not to be missed!