Nat Hentoff, renowned jazz critic, civil liberties activist, and fearless contrarian-"I'm a Jewish atheist civil-libertarian pro-lifer"-has lived through much of jazz's history and has known
many of jazz's most important figures, often as friend and confidante. Hentoff has been a tireless advocate for the neglected parts of jazz history, including forgotten sidemen and women. This
volume includes his best recent work-short essays, long interviews, and personal memories. From Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong to Ornette Coleman and Quincy Jones, Hentoff brings the jazz
greats to life and traces their art to gospel, blues, and many other forms of American music. At the Jazz Band Ball also reflects Hentoff's keen, cosmopolitan intellect on a wide range
of issues. The book shows how jazz and education are a vital partnership, how free expression is the essence of liberty, and how social justice issues like health care and strong civil rights
and liberties keep all the arts-and all members of society-strong.
