Event

Music in the Pavilion: Odean Pope

November 8, 2024 (Friday) — 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Van Pelt Library Center, 6th Floor - Kislak Center Class of 1978 Orrery Pavilion
3420 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA

Registration is Required for all guests outside of the Penn community and encouraged for all participants: Please register here

Pre-concert talk at 6:15 by Odean Pope. 

Saxophonist and composer Odean Pope and his Choir will honor the enduring influence that Philadelphia has had on Pope's artistic vision with a performance and pre-concert talk. Odean Pope has his own unique musical vision, most fully expressed via his Saxophone Choir – for this performance comprising seven saxophones + rhythm section. Pope and his Choir will honor the enduring influence that Philadelphia has had  on his artistic vision and recognize the inspiration of Jazz Master Max Roach, the legendary drummer and composer.  

ABOUT ODEAN POPE

Odean Pope, a renowned saxophonist, began his musical journey through his Southern Baptist church roots before moving to Philadelphia at ten. He studied at The Graniff School of Music and Benjamin Franklin High School, and was influenced by local jazz legends. Pope furthered his education with Ron Rubin and at The Paris Conservatory under Kenny Clarke. Co-founding the innovative group Catalyst in the 70s, he gained prominence with the Max Roach Quartet from 1979 to 2002, mastering techniques like circular breathing and multiphonics. Known for his unique tenor saxophone sound, Pope established a saxophone choir and has significantly contributed to music education in Philadelphia. His distinguished career has earned him several prestigious awards, including the Pew Fellowship, Rockefeller Foundation support, and the Mid Atlantic Living Legacy Award in 2017.

ABOUT MUSIC IN THE PAVILION

Presented by the University of Pennsylvania's Music Department, the Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, and the Otto E. Albrecht Music Library, the music series Music in the Pavilion takes place in the beautiful sixth-floor Class of 1978 Orrery Pavilion in Van Pelt Library. (Link to website)