Modern Jazz Quartet: 40 Years of MJQ

The members of the Modern Jazz Quartet met when they were part of the rhythm section in Dizzy Gillespie's big band. Their unique sound and style are presented in this film, 40 Years of MJQ, which highlights their virtuosity and demonstrates the influences that powered their music. At times, jazz has not commanded the respect that many feel it deserves, and the MJQ did their part by appearing in upscale locations and incorporating classical music into their repertoire. In this program, accompanied by a string orchestra, they perform Adagio from Concierto de Aranjues, Alexander's Fugue, and A Day in Dubrovnik, among others.