Sound Beat Podcast Celebrates Art Tatum's Jazz Legacy

The 'Sound Beat' podcast has become a beacon of musical history, shining a light on the works of renowned and lesser-known artists alike. A product of Syracuse University's daily output, the show draws from the rich collection housed within the Belfer Audio Laboratory and Archive. As one of the largest such archives in the United States, Belfer's collection is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be told.

Rediscovering Art Tatum's Genius

Art Tatum, an almost blind African-American jazz pianist, is renowned for his incredible musical talent and distinctive style. Despite his visual impairment, Tatum's fingers danced on the piano keys with fluidity, bringing a unique passion and soul to each performance. His ability to blend powerful rhythms with intricate melodies placed him at the forefront of pushing jazz forward in its golden era.

One particular episode of 'Sound Beat', titled 'Begin the Beguine', focuses on Tatum's skill in reinterpreting well-known songs from earlier decades. It showcases his version of the classic piece originally written by Cole Porter, revealing Tatum's inspirations and his exceptional ability to captivate an audience with his virtuosity.

Production and Educational Values

The 'Sound Beat' show not only entertains but also serves an educational purpose. Students from Syracuse University have the opportunity to participate in the Sound Beat Class Partnership, where they gain hands-on experience in podcast production. The partnership allows students to contribute to the show, and the most compelling stories from class projects can become featured episodes.

The process of creating each episode involves meticulous research and scriptwriting by students, followed by recording voiceovers by 'Sound Beat' host and SU alumnus Brett Barry. Producer Jim O'Connor then masterfully mixes these elements to bring the episodes to life.

Cultural Significance and Educational Efforts

Beyond music, 'Sound Beat' incorporates significant historical speeches and offers insights into the cultural backdrop of the times. In doing so, it provides a window into the past and the climate in which these artists, like Art Tatum, performed. It also addresses the racial divide that once influenced musical styles and the opportunities available to African-American musicians.

The show does not shy away from covering a myriad of musical genres and history, making it an auditory mosaic of America's cultural heritage. Episodes span the gamut from jazz and classical to other distinctly American styles like bebop, country, and bluegrass.

jazz, podcast, history