Perhaps more than any other artform, the 20th century was shaped by jazz. And piano player and composer Mary Lou Williams was there at nearly every turn. In recent years, historians have documented and dissected her career and its big impact on American music. But the final chapter of her life—spent teaching at Duke University—was shrouded in mystery. Until now. Special thanks to Chris Pattishall for writing and performing the score for this episode. Featuring: Anthony Kelley, Professor of the Practice of Music at Duke University Verena Mösenbichler-Bryant, Chair of the Music Department at Duke University Tammy Kernodle, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Music at Miami University Chris Pattishall, Grammy-nominated piano player and composer Links: Watch the Duke Wind Symphony perform Mary Lou Williams’ “History” here. You can find a transcript of the episode here. The Broadside is made possible by contributions from listeners like you. Support WUNC-North Carolina Public Radio and this podcast by making a donation. Sign up for WUNC's new Politics Newsletter here.
