David Amram, the “renaissance man of American music” and the official artist emeritus of The Village Trip, headlined the annual festival’s Eighth Street Block Party on Sat., Sept. 9.
As usual, Amram, 92, who was joined by a quintet, regaled the crowd with his multi-instrumental prowess and authentic tales of his friendships and collaborations with the Beats and jazz greats. Among other distinctions in his illustrious career, Amram was picked by Leonard Bernstein to be the New York Philharmonic’s first composer-in-residence.
Speaking of honors, the legendary music man also received a proclamation by Mayor Adams — presented by the Trip’s Liz Thomson and Councilmember Erik Bottcher — declaring it David Amram Day in New York City.
Amram also always urges the crowd to stay in touch with their own innate, childlike creativity and keep the faith — and never to let the critics and naysayers dampen one’s drive and enthusiasm to make great art and music.
Wonderful! Well deserved, David!
He looks so vigorous! A poster child for the anti-aging power of Art — music and performance!