Eddie Lang Day Philadelphia
The Blackbird Society Orchestra hosts the 8th Annual “Eddie Lang Day Philadelphia” honoring South Philadelphia’s own “Father of Jazz Guitar” whos innovative playing gave the guitar a prominence it previously lacked as a solo instrument as part of a band or orchestra and as an accompaniment for vocalists.
Lang’s short contribution to the Jazz Age influenced many other guitarists over the decades and his memory has been kept in the forefront thanks to the authentic renderings of the 12 piece BSO that reads from a collection of vintage original music charts used by the bands - and even Lang himself !
The band is led by Richard Barnes who founded BSO in 1997. He performed for 10 years with Leon Redbone , strengthening his knowledge of vintage jazz.
In 2010 Barnes founded Eddie Lang Day Philadelphia and made it official with a Mayoral Proclamation from Michael Nutter .
In 2016 Barnes led the campaign to have Mural Arts Program dedicate a 60’ wall mural at 7th and Fitzwater honoring Lang and other Jazz greats.
There will be seating as well as plenty of room for dancing !