FT. LAUDERDALE – Sunday, May 22, was declared Monty Alexander Day in Broward County following the outstanding performance of internationally acclaimed jazz performer, Monty Alexander, C.D., during the first annual Reggae Jazz Fusion at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA) in Fort Lauderdale.
Broward County Commissioner, Dale Holness presented a proclamation in honor of the 50th anniversary of the piano legend, which has earned him a place in the top five jazz artistes in Hal Leonard’s book titled: ‘The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of all Time.’
Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness (left) presenting a proclamation to Reggae Jazz Legend Monty Alexander
Under the auspices of Jamaican Consul General, Sandra Grant Griffiths, patrons enjoyed a night of musical entertainment as the special guest and preeminent, Alexander shared the stage with other Jamaican musical giants, including reggae artiste, Maxi Priest; songwriter and accomplished artiste, A.J. Brown; and jazz performer, Eugene Grey as the Broward Center for the Performing Arts continued its 20th anniversary celebrations, showcasing a series of year-round events since last September.
Throughout his performance, Alexander demonstrated his musical talent and showmanship through his variety of selections which included fusions of contemporary jazz and reggae anchored in traditional folk music. Alexander had his audience participating in rhythmic song and dance from his extensive repertoire of some 60 albums.
The jazz giant performed to a large audience of musical enthusiasts demonstrating his diversity and creativity throughout his musical career which he said began at age six when he took his first piano lessons. He described his musical journey as “an exciting one” spanning five decades, performing on world stages with such greats as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, Ernest Ranglin, Bill Cosby, Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare, Charlie Parker, Natalie Cole among others.
In 2000, Mr. Alexander was a recipient of Jamaica’s national honour, Order of Distinction (Commander Class) for outstanding services as a worldwide music ambassador.
Following the performance, the Consul General met with the jazz virtuoso praising him for his invaluable contribution to music, in particular jazz for 50 years, and “for his undeniable role as an ambassador par excellence in his own right in the Jamaican Diaspora.” She also commended the outstanding performance and contribution of the other entertaining artistes which she said made the reggae fusion palette an excellent fit.
The Consul General also commended the organizers of the event, Riddims Marketing and the BCPA for showcasing diversity in the arts.
L-R: Broward County Commissioner, Dale Holeness, Riddims Marketing President, Eddy Edwards, City of Miramar Commissioner, Winston Barnes, Sara Griffiths, Consul General Sandra Grant-Griffiths, and Jazz Legend Monty Alexander.
