This is Episode Six in our series on "The Spirit Of Music" which explores the deeper metaphysical and spiritual components of music and creativity.
Dr. Alton Merrell is a world class pianist, composer, and educator based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Dr. Merrell has been blessed to minister with Gospel / Christian artists Kim Burrell, Martha Munizzi, Donnie McClurkin, Alvin Slaughter, Maurette Brown Clark, Dorothy Norwood, Israel Houghton, LaShunn Pace, Morris Chapman, Parkes Stewart, and the late Rev. Timothy Wright. He has also been seen several times on the nationally televised Bobby Jones Gospel Show. Dr. Merrell has also performed with jazz artists: Benny Golson, Christian McBride, Jeff "Tain" Watts, Curtis Fuller, Jimmy Owens, Jimmy Heath, Slide Hampton, Rufus Reed, Sean Jones, and Roger Humphries.
He is a current member of the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and has also performed with, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, Cleveland State Jazz Heritage Orchestra, Pittsburgh Concert Chorale, YSU All-Star Alumni Jazz Ensemble,Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, and the OMEA Intercollegiate All-Star Jazz Ensemble.
Here he shares his approach to The Spirit of Music from both an academic and prophetic view with an inside look into John Coltrane's approach.
The Full Interview is Available Here
I also gave a shout out to Jerry Joplin of The HellRaisinHippies for his/their unique approach to Electronic Music!
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Theme Music is "YOYO" written by G.H. Beulah, Jr. & J. Herod, Jr. Performed by SounDoctrine © 2002 Soul Food Music (BMI) All Rights Reserved
