Alphonso Trent: On the Frontier of Jazz

Fort Smith native Alphonso Trent played a feature role as a pioneer of America's classical music — jazz. He led a large ensemble throughout the Southwest during the 1920s and early 1930s, performing in major hotels, dance halls and even on radio (his was the first black orchestra in the Southwest to broadcast). Although Trent's band received some national recognition (particularly among fellow musicians such as the great Paul Whiteman), the orchestra did not survive the Great Depression. Hear Trent's story, see vintage photographs and listen to rare recordings.

Speaker: Henry Rinne

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To schedule, call 479-788-7025 or e-mail slamar@uafortsmith.edu.