From Slavery to Freedom Film Series: Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band

Join the African American Program for a free screening of “Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band.”  

Part of the From Slavery to Freedom Film Series, “Mary Lou Williams: The Lady Who Swings the Band” is a documentary that explores the life and music of Williams, a renowned jazz pianist, composer, and arranger from Pittsburgh.

From child prodigy to “Boogie Woogie Queen” to groundbreaking composer and mentor for some of the greatest innovators in Jazz, Williams never ceased to astound those who heard her play. But for a Black woman in a male dominated music genre, she had challenges that impacted her craft. Directed by Carol Bash, the film is an inside look at Williams’ indelible impact on jazz music.

The program is a collaboration with the Mary Lou Williams Institute and presented in recognition of Williams’ 113th birthday.

Representatives from The Mary Lou Williams Institute for Excellence in the Arts and Humanities will discuss the film and legacy of one of the greatest jazz artists in music history. The institute uses arts-based education and community outreach as a means of fostering an appreciation for jazz music and her legacy in Pittsburgh.

The From Slavery to Freedom Film Series is presented by the History Center’s African American Program and is supported by Highmark and Allegheny Health Network.

Admission

The virtual screening is free with advance registration.