Documentary: the Girls in the Band at Pittsfield CityJazz Festival at

Judy Chaikin's documentary film reveals the untold stories of female jazz and big band instrumentalists and their journeys from the late 1930's to the present day. It's the culminating event of the 10th annual Pittsfield CityJazz Festival.

In the world of jazz, women have long been marginalized as singers or piano players. Little has ever been documented about the enormously talented female trumpet players, saxophonist and drummers who struggled for recognition but were cut off from any meaningful employment by men who didn't want women on their bandstands. This film traces the history of the all-girl bands and the struggles of the handful who broke through the male bastions, and brings us into the present day, where brilliantly gifted young women are going toe-to-toe with the finest jazz musicians of their day. ...

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Judy Chaikin's documentary film reveals the untold stories of female jazz and big band instrumentalists and their journeys from the late 1930's to the present day. It's the culminating event of the 10th annual Pittsfield CityJazz Festival.

In the world of jazz, women have long been marginalized as singers or piano players. Little has ever been documented about the enormously talented female trumpet players, saxophonist and drummers who struggled for recognition but were cut off from any meaningful employment by men who didn't want women on their bandstands. This film traces the history of the all-girl bands and the struggles of the handful who broke through the male bastions, and brings us into the present day, where brilliantly gifted young women are going toe-to-toe with the finest jazz musicians of their day.

Concluding a weekend that features women in jazz, this film creates a lasting impression. $10 ($5 for members of The Berkshire Museum)

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