Thanks to Karen Taylor and the organization “While We Are Still Here,” a new marker is in place to memorialize the sound of tenor saxophonist Coleman Hawkins on 153rd Street on Sunday afternoon. To celebrate the placing of the Hawkins marker, near where he lived on the street (at 445), Taylor brought a busload of admirers to the spot, where they were serenaded by the sax virtuoso James Carter. His rendition of Hawkins’s immortal solo on “Body and Soul” featured his typical flair and unique improvisation, which always includes a full exploration of his horn. There was also time for him to extend his history of the music, with a snippet of examples, explaining how jazz transitioned from swing to bebop.
It was his performance, though, that mesmerized the attendees and passersby, many of them applauding as they headed for the next stop on the historic marker tour of Harlem. On several occasions, Carter has given a sonic moment to Taylor’s vision, and there are sure to be other opportunities for him to share his vast knowledge and matchless saxophone.