Two Silent Films by Oscar Micheaux that have been set to music by original scores written by Wycliffe Gordon. Both scores feature an 18-piece jazz orchestra and vocalists.

“Body and Soul”

Screening of silent film with live accompaniment by an 18-piece big band ensemble. Full DVD with soundtrack is available for review.  This score was commissioned for Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and was first premiered in New York City and Savannah GA.

“Within Our Gates”

Screening of silent film with live accompaniment by an 18-piece jazz orchestra and male and female vocalists. Full soundtrack is available. Wycliffe has performed this dynamic work to rave reviews in New York City several times including the Miller Theater and Symphony Space, at the Savannah Music Festival, in Miami FL at Frost School of Music, and in Augusta GA at the Maxwell Theater.  For information click here.

Gordon captures the essence of Micheaux’s movie skillfully in stunning composition by re-imagining the past, present and future aspects of this fundamental work. His 78-minute original score imbues the refrains of early-to-modern jazz alongside work songs, hymns and classical motifs, which recur throughout the film and executed superbly by a live 18-piece jazz orchestra and vocalists. The composition draws from Gordon’s musical training in jazz, classical, gospel, blues, and church music and from Gordon’s depth as an artist both musically and culturally.

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