Ernest Dawkins Young Masters LTSR Fannie Lou Hamer No One Could Contain Her

The world premiere of “Fannie Lou Hamer: No One Could Contain Her” is a newly composed large-scale jazz work by Ernest Dawkins, presented as part of the 2026 International Jazz Festival Neighborhood Nights.

This powerful performance blends music and storytelling to honor Fannie Lou Hamer, celebrating her legacy as a fearless Civil Rights leader. The piece is brought to life by Dawkins’ ensemble, The Young Masters, alongside the Live the Spirit Residency Big Band—groups dedicated to mentoring emerging artists and sustaining Chicago’s rich jazz tradition.

As a world premiere, the event offers audiences a first-time experience of an original, socially rooted composition that connects jazz, history, and community. This event is free and open to the public.

The Young Masters are the opening act starting at 5:30 pm, Second Act starting at 6:30 pm - World Premiere: “Fannie Lou Hamer: No One Could Contain Her” Composed by Ernest Dawkins.

The Young Masters, directed by Ernest Dawkins, featuring:

Jamal Damien, trumpet; Donell Brisco, trumpet; Michael Shebar, alto saxophone; Anthony Olague, tenor saxophone; Kevin Cabrera, tenor saxophone; Charlie Debski, guitar; Miles Richey, piano; Daniel Johnson, piano; Galen Morris, bass; Zadie Ma, bass; Macari Ramsey, drums; Michael Brewer, drums.

Live the Spirit Residency Big Band, featuring:

Maggie Brown, vocals; MC Artemis, spoken word; Corey Wilkes, trumpet and electronics; Norman Palm, trombone; Kevin King, flute, clarinet, oboe; Jacob Slocum, baritone sax, Bb clarinet, bass clarinet, bassoon; Fred Jackson, flute, alto saxophone, soprano saxophone; Frank Morrison III, drums; Catlin Edwards, violin; Edith Yokley, violin; Wilfred Farquharson, viola; Tahirah Whittington, cello; Micah Collier, bass; Jonathan Woods, dancer and VJ; Brother El, sound artist.

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Host or Publisher Live The Spirit Residency