Witnessing Savion Glover in action is like watching genius at work. The acclaimed tap dancer was the headliner for the 2012 Blue Note Jazz Fest. On Wednesday, June 14, Glover performed in front of a packed audience at the historic Blue Note Jazz Club.
Backed by a four-man band that included a drummer, saxophonist, bass and pianist, Glover used his feet as an instrument that coincided beautifully with each melody played by the band. Glover matched each beat of the drummer and every note from the saxophonist as audience members looked on in awe.
After a 30-minute set, Glover introduced jazz great “The Real” McCoy Tyner. Tyner, who played alongside jazz legend John Coltrane, entered the stage to a standing ovation. Tyner did a short solo piece before Glover complimented him by tapping along as he played the piano. As Tyner attacked the piano keys, Glover’s feet produced thunderous sounds. Their amazing duet lasted well over an hour.
After the performance, Tyner grabbed the microphone to discuss Glover and the future of jazz, “I’m always happy to see younger guys carrying jazz to the next level,” he said. “This music represents our culture and it made the world pay attention.”
The two closed the show with a performance of “African Village.”–amir shaw
