Memorial Planned for Pianist Chris Anderson

By I Mar. 19, 2008

There will be a memorial March 31 for pianist Chris Anderson, who died Feb. 4, at Saint Peter’s Church in New York.

The Chicago-born pianist passed away just short of his 82nd birthday. He was hailed as a “master of harmony and sensitivity” by Herbie Hancock, and played with many of the greats. As house pianist in the Pershing Ballroom in Chicago, he played with Sonny Stitt, Charlie Parker and Clifford Brown. Although Anderson was handicapped by blindness and a bone disorder, he managed to get around in the New York jazz scene. Pianist Barry Harris chose Anderson as a soloist in his annual concerts. Anderson played at a number of clubs, including the Jazz Gallery, Bradley’s and the Village Vanguard.

Several musicians will participate in the memorial including pianists Barry Harris, Richard Wyands, Jason Lindner, Harold Mabern and Larry Willis; bassists Bill Lee, Lisle Atkinson, Ray Drummond; drummers Leroy Williams and Doug Richardson; guitarist Roni Ben-Hur; vocalists Lodi Carr and Sabina Sciubba; and saxophonist George Coleman.

More info: jazzfoundation.org