Alan Dawson: Leading Lexingtonian

“Lexington has heroes in every century, as change-seekers have made their mark on the town. Through building community, working for social change, pioneering in their fields, and pursuing creative passions, Leading Lexingtonians keep Lexington on the map as a historic place. This lecture series highlights their accomplishments, which are also displayed on a rotating basis in the Lexington Depot Museum.

Alan Dawson was an extraordinary jazz drummer, percussionist, and teacher who inspired countless students to pursue professional music and instruction. His accomplishments were many: He played with the Army Dance Band at Fort Dix during the Korean War. He taught at Berklee College of Music, and offered private lessons in his own home. His drumming was featured on albums with artists such as Quincy Jones, Clifford Brown, Dexter Gordon, and Dave Brubeck. He formed his own band, the Alan Dawson Quartet, and had a posthumous album, Waltzin’ with Flo, released in 2000. Most importantly, his teaching methods are still being used today by his students who continue to lift up the next generation of jazz musicians.

Join us as we welcome family, former students, and music enthusiasts to honor Dawson’s legacy in Lexington. Enjoy live music from Chris Neville, Ron Mahdi, and John Ramsay, followed by an interactive celebration of Dawson’s career led by Dawson’s daughter Deborah Mullins and student Mike Powers. Cosponsored by the Association of Black Citizens of Lexington (ABCL). A limited number of books, The Drummer’s Complete Vocabulary As Taught by Alan Dawson, are available for $26.