In September 2019, I worked with Chandra Harrington and the staff at the Museum of African American History to develop the exhibit, Jazz Scene in Boston: Telling the Local Story. It ran in parallel with a second exhibit, Jazz Greats, a traveling exhibition of fine photos taken by master photographers. In late 2019 and into the new year, the Abiel Smith School galleries were filled with the images of America’s—and Boston’s—rich jazz history. Jazz Scene in Boston is a visual delight. It includes images by noted photographers Lee Tanner and Jack Bradley, and photos and memorabilia from my own collection, as well as from the Carrington family collection and others. There are institutional contributions as well, such as Boston Jazz Society items from the University of Massachusetts archives, and Lennie’s-on-the-Turnpike photos from the archives at Salem State University. The exhibit should have closed in the spring, but the virus shut down the museum, and the staff had to come up with a plan B. They did, and it includes keeping Jazz Scene on display until further notice. If you missed it, you have another opportunity to see some great photography and an assortment of vintage posters and flyers. It’s all at the Museum of African American History, 46 Joy Street on Beacon Hill. Visit their site for hours and more information.
