35th Annual IAJE Conference

IAJE Events preview

by Louisa LaBarbera

This week in Toronto we are fortunate to be hosting the anual IAJE (InternationalAssociation of Jazz Educators) Conference. That silly saying, “Those who can’t do:teach,” certainly doesn’t apply in this scene where numerous educators are alsoactive performers and writers of today’s most cutting edge jazz. Converging onToronto this week are many such musicians. Although the majority of concerts arefor conference attendees only, that won’t stop us from getting to hear from some ofthe best performers! Contrary to some local opinons, Jazz in Toronto is very muchalive…with many little clubs and restraunts popping up with jazz all over town,there are lots of performances to check out. From big concerts to little pizzaparlour gigs, I’ve put together a mix of my fave choices for this weekend.

Pimp C, Free At Last

I won’t claim to be the biggest UGK fan around but they are vets and definitely have some classic material that can’t be disputed. Thats why when I heard that Pimp C, 1 half of UGK, passed away today I had to post about it. Plus I just saw it on Nahright so it must be official.

A few months back FWMJ posted this audio interview with Pimp C and aside from all the jokes that you get from listening you also get a lot of jewelz. He stands for family and unity in hip hop. Plus you gotta admire the fact that he doesnt back down from his standpoint that probably lost him a few ATL fans. Or even worse let the media try and twist his words.

R.I.P Pimp C