MFEST ran this (2008) documentary on the remarkable award winning Kashmere High school band, out of Texas, that was once led by an inspiring teacher and music director in the days, 45 years back when not merely civil rights legislation but soul and funk music transformed American society and the music that reed and brass bands were playing. So, Conrad Johnson made sure his young charges were not only mastering their instruments but putting the new sound into some competitive national contests of high school bands more likely to play swing hits from previous decades. This documentary recalls the success of the band, and the petty political pressures of the local school board, when it achieved recognition across America, and travelled to Europe no less. He retired soon after the board picked apart the music program, in detrimental fashion. A timely 21rst Century reunion in tribute to Prof Johnson served to show the pride and love his musicians drew from their time together, as he was quite old, and ailing. Oscar winner Jamie Foxx is both the narrator and a co-executive producer of this film.
Posted on: Mon, 26 Aug 2013 06:21:33 +0000
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