Benny Carter: Symphony in Riffs
Benny Carter: Symphony in Riffs

Movie spotlight

Benny Carter: Symphony in Riffs

1990
Movie
58 min
English

Burt Lancaster narrates this overview of the incredible career of jazz saxophonist Benny Carter, one of the chief architects of the Big Band sound. COMMENTARY BY QUINCY JONES, DIZZY GILLESPIE, ELLA FITZGERALD, LENA HORNE AND MORE

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Robert AskinGenres: Documentary, Music

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the life and career of the legendary jazz musician Benny Carter. It delves into his multifaceted talents as an alto saxophonist, composer, arranger, and bandleader. Through archival footage and interviews with fellow musicians and critics, the film highlights Carter's enduring influence on jazz music across several decades.

Critical Reception

Benny Carter: Symphony in Riffs was generally well-received by critics for its insightful portrayal of a jazz icon and its extensive collection of rare performance footage. Reviewers praised its comprehensive scope, covering Carter's long and prolific career, and its ability to capture the essence of his musical genius and his quiet, dignified presence. The film is considered a valuable addition to the library of jazz documentaries.

What Reviewers Say

  • A fitting tribute to a jazz master.

  • Showcases Carter's immense talent and lasting legacy.

  • Rich with historical performance footage.

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Fun Fact

Benny Carter's career spanned an astonishing nine decades, and he continued to perform and compose well into his 90s, making him one of the longest-active musicians in jazz history.

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