Acknowledgements:




Alvin Curran for working through the early drafts with me, and his highly provocative suggestions.

Glenn Spearman for introducing me to the tradition and history of this music, for providing me with background materials and literature, and for his continued respect and enthusiasm for my musical and intellectual development.

Peter Apfelbaum and Oluyame Thomas for help in obtaining the recorded documentation of the concert.

David Bernstein, Chris Brown, and Annie Randall for their considered suggestions and interest.

And, of course, Cecil Taylor for the opportunity to work with him, his incredible creative energy, and his challenging and spiritual musical legacy.


 Table of Contents

Prefatory Note

 Epigraph