Message to Our Folks: The Art Ensemble of Chicago

The Art Ensemble of Chicago, formed in 1966, is celebrating its golden anniversary this year. The group was known for its unique performance practices, which included playing hundreds of instruments, reciting poetry, performing theatrical sketches, and wearing face paint, masks, lab coats, and traditional African and Asian dress. Paul Steinbeck's book, Message to Our Folks, provides a comprehensive study of the band, proposing a new theory of group improvisation and examining the multimedia dimensions of their performances. The group's distinctive model of social relations kept them performing together for four decades.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2018
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The Art Ensemble of Chicago, a pioneering ensemble founded in 1966 and disbanded in 2010, stands as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. Renowned for its unique performance practices, the Art Ensemble showcased a diverse range of talents, including musicians, poets, actors, and visual artists, who embraced an eclectic mix of instruments, costumes, and theatrical elements. Their performances, often described as experimental performance art, defied conventional jazz aesthetics, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.

In his comprehensive book, Message to Our Folks, Paul Steinbeck delves into the intricate world of the Art Ensemble, offering a profound analysis and historical perspective. Through meticulous research and musical expertise, Steinbeck proposes a groundbreaking theory of group improvisation that sheds light on the remarkable ability of the band members to seamlessly blend diverse styles and tap into an extensive repertoire of notated compositions. He explores the multimedia dimensions of the Art Ensemble's performances, highlighting the ways in which their distinctive model of social relations fostered a sense of cohesion and longevity that kept the group performing together for four decades.

Message to Our Folks is a remarkable and indispensable contribution to the understanding and appreciation of the Art Ensemble. It provides a deep dive into the creative process, the social dynamics, and the enduring legacy of this extraordinary musical group. As readers immerse themselves in Steinbeck's insightful narrative, they are invited to witness the profound impact that the Art Ensemble had on the world of music and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the history of artistic expression.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226418094