AllMovie

Each year, the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC, sponsors a number of special cultural events for the public. This six-part video series showcases the diverse musical talents of a group of artists who have performed at the Institute. Art Blakey, Benny Carter, Alberta Hunter, Art Farmer, Joe Williams, and Mel Lewis take the stage and delight audiences in each videotaped performance. This volume highlights the special talents of the late drummer Mel Lewis as he plays with a 17-piece jazz ensemble orchestra. Three Herbie Hancock tunes are among the featured songs.