 Von Freeman © Andrea Canter Chicago saxophonist Von Freeman created a unique and captivating tenor style in the 1940s and 50s. He played steadily, recording with Charlie Parker and Andrew Hill. He made his first recording as a leader in 1972 at the age of 49, a couple more in the next several years, and then nothing more for a decade, them, in his 70s he a began a series of albums that have made the world rediscover him, DownBeat Magazine had him on their cover in 2001). Von is now a much-demanded performer at festivals the world over, and the recipient of a mayoral proclamation (with a street named for him), as well as a doctorate from Northwestern University, at the age of 80. This year he will turn 85 and he is still going strong.
Born Earl Lavon Freeman on October 2, 1922, on the South Side of Chicago, Von grew up with his musical younger brothers George, a well-known Chicago guitarist, and drummer Bruz. At age 16 Von played tenor in Horace Henderson's big band for a year.
Von moved to New York in the mid 40s, but then soon returned to Chicago, where he and his brothers played in the house band at the Pershing Ballroom, backing visiting jazz greats that included Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie; eventually, he led his own groups, giving early exposure to rising stars Ahmad Jamal, Andrew Hill, and Malachi Favors. Von was also a member of the first “Arkestra” assembled by Sun Ra in 1948. In the 50s, Von built a reputation as one of the city’s most accomplished but unusual saxophonists, with a big sound and a unique, modern style.
Von Freeman had his 80th Birthday Concert at Symphony Center, a birthday tribute at the Chicago Jazz Festival, his honorary doctorate from Northwestern, and a Chicago “Heroes” Award presented by the National Academy Of Recording Arts & Sciences.
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Wednesday, 03 December 2008
