“Still I Rise” is dedicated to the great African-American poet, singer, actor, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou. This powerful poem basically describes the plight and resilience of African-Americans, from the times of slavery through emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the civil rights era, and up to today. When Angelou died in 2014, this melody popped…Continue reading VIDEO: “Still I Rise” by Derrick E. Gardner & The Big dig! Band
Rooftop Retreat Pop Ups w/ Derrick Gardner Quintet – 7/2
Enjoy summer nights and amazing skyline views as you support local artists, performers, and other groups on the WAG’s stunning Rooftop Sculpture Garden! Join us for our first Rooftop Pop Up of the season on Thursday, July 2, as Jazz Winnipeg and WAG on the Rooftop present the Derrick Gardner Quintet! Jul 2 ’20 7:00pm…Continue reading Rooftop Retreat Pop Ups w/ Derrick Gardner Quintet – 7/2
VIDEO: Derrick Gardner & The Big dig! Band – Melody For Trayvon
“Melody for Trayvon” is dedicated to the African-American teen Trayvon Martin, whose senseless slaying in a neighbourhood watch fiasco in Florida in 2012 initiated a firestorm of riots and protests over gun violence. As a composer and a student of human history, I see my music as a kind of activism. I’m invoking sadness, solemnity,…Continue reading VIDEO: Derrick Gardner & The Big dig! Band – Melody For Trayvon