William Paterson University to Present Symposium on Philosophy and Jazz on March 25

Using philosophy to understand music is the topic of a symposium to be held at William Paterson University in Wayne on Tuesday, March 25 in the Martini Teleconference Center in Hobart Hall on campus from 12:30 to 4:45 p.m. Admission is free.

"Philosophy and the Arts: The Aesthetics of Jazz" is a panel discussion between philosophers, jazz musicians, and educators. Panelists will debate many topics including the nature of jazz, what makes jazz beautiful, what is universal about jazz and whether jazz conveys moral messages.

"Aesthetics, which is the branch of philosophy that focuses on the nature of beauty, includes the study of music to determine what makes music beautiful," explains Leonard Harris, a philosopher and the 2002-2003 Distinguished Visiting Professor at William Paterson. "This symposium will provide a unique opportunity for musicians and philosophers to discuss in a formal way why people listen to jazz music all around the world."

William Paterson participants include four members of the University’s jazz faculty: James Williams, a noted jazz pianist and the director of the University’s Jazz Studies Program; David Demsey, a saxophonist and coordinator of the Jazz Studies Program, Bill Goodwin, a drummer and long-time member of the Phil Woods Quintet; and Don Braden, a saxophonist who has performed as a band leader and with Betty Carter and Freddie Hubbard. Rounding out the panels will be Daniel Kolak, a University professor of philosophy and a composer and musician; and Stephen Thompson, an assistant professor of philosophy and a specialist in African American philosophy.

Other participants include Paul J. Burgett, vice president and senior advisor to the president at Rochester University and author of "The Negro and His Music;" Bill E. Lawson, professor of philosophy, Michigan State University, and author of "Between Slavery and Freedom: Philosophy and American Slavery;" Albert Mosley, professor of philosophy, Smith College, and the author of numerous articles on philosophy and jazz; and Jarrard Harris, director of the DePaul University Jazz Band.

For additional information, please call Professor Harris at 973-720-3775.

3/21/03
For Further Information, contact:

Mary Beth Zeman, Director, Public Relations 973-720-2966