Frank Adams on Music Education in Birmingham's Black Schools (1)

Frank Adams on Music Education in Birmingham's Black Schools (1)

In this excerpt, Adams reflects on his early training in music, including his first informal lessons from his older brother Oscar and his experience in the elementary and high school bands of William Wise Handy and John T. “Fess” Whatley. Adams—brainstorming topics for an upcoming presentation to a student group—also elaborates on the tradition of industrial education and its impact on student musicians; vocal harmony training and performance at Industrial (later Parker) High School; and, more broadly, the spirit of education in Birmingham’s segregated Black schools. Also included are descriptions of memorable visits to Industrial High School by Eleanor Roosevelt and W. C. Handy. This interview was conducted by Burgin Mathews in Frank Adams’s office at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, Birmingham, Alabama, September 12, 2009. A transcript of the excerpt is included.

Birmingham (Ala.)

Cassette tape

audio