UMKC Libraries Receives McShann Collection
From the UMKC library press desk:
UMKC’s LaBudde Special Collections at Miller Nichols Library recently received the collection of legendary Kansas City pianist and bandleader Jay McShann.
Highlights of the collection include videos of interviews with McShann and footage capturing him in performance. In addition, the collection includes photographs, awards, and other memorabilia from McShann’s lengthy career. It represents a major addition to the extensive Kansas City jazz collections housed in the LaBudde Special Collections and the Marr Sound Archives, and offers students and scholars a rich trove of artifacts from a Kansas City legend.
Originally from Oklahoma, McShann moved to Kansas City in 1936. A two fisted pianist who played a broad range of jazz styles ranging from the blues to bebop, McShann led a big band that featured Charlie “Bird” Parker. In April 1941, the band recorded “Confessin’ the Blues,” a lazy orchestral expression of the blues. “Confessin’ the Blues” hit big nationally, selling over 100,000 copies within three months. [It was recorded by the Rolling Stones on their 1964 Five By Five album, amongst the many other covers out there. — Ed.] …
McShann had strong ties to the UMKC [sic]. He attended the Conservatory of Music in the 1950s and received an honorary Doctor of Musical Arts in 1990. The collection was donated to the library by his daughter, Pam McShann.
Once the collection is processed users will have online accessibility to the finding aid and photographs. Until then, or to view items in person, arrangements can be made by calling 816-235-5712.
To find out more on Jay McShann, you can listen to NPR’s Jazz Profile on McShann or watch his appearance on KMBC’s “Dimensions” in 1992 that appears below.
From the collection of Billy Vera.
