"The fellow who has really been pretty much directly responsible for the time revolution in modern jazz. ...who has abandoned the idea of writing fresh music in 4/4 time, 3/4 time, 6/8 time. He has gone into all kinds of complicated forms and we're delighted he's a part of our composing staff. His name is HANK LEVY." - Stan Kenton (Live at Butler University, 1972)
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Welcome to The Official Web Site for Hank Levy Jazz Composer, Arranger & Educator
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Next Performance
To Be Announced
Book The Band
Click here to Book the Hank Levy Legacy Band
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NEW! 'Big Band of the Week – Hank Levy Legacy Band'
Read the announcement letter here.
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Hank Levy:
For nearly 30 years, the music composed by Hank Levy has changed the face of modern jazz. If you had the opportunity to see The Stan Kenton Orchestra and/or Don Ellis in the 1960's and 1970's, you probably experienced a number of Levy's charts being performed by these two jazz giants. From the 1970s' into the 1980's, Levy became an educator/composer for The Towson State Jazz Ensemble until his retirement in 1989.
Levy's work in odd time signatures -- ranging from 5/4 to 12/8 and all else in-between -- is not "experimental jazz." It resonants in a particular groove and creates a framework for an orchestra and for soloists, just as traditional compositions do. You will find yourself nodding and getting into the tune and not even realize it's in an odd time signature. He also had the talent for creating the most unique--and coolest--titles for his compositions: "Rock Odyssey," "Fringe Benefit," "Antea," "Warp Factor Five," "Chiapas" and many more.
Hank Levy's music has more relevance today than ever before. His chart "Whiplash" was the inspiration for the motion picture of the same name. Countless high school and college jazz bands world-wide perform his music as well as drum & bugle corps and marching bands across the country. Explore this site to learn more about Levy's legacy and musical vision.
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If you have questions about Hank Levy, his music, licensing, acquiring his jazz charts or anything else,
please send me an e-mail and we will respond as soon as possible.
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