Back by popular demand! Legendary drummer and inventor of the “Purdie shuffle,” Bernard Purdie, will perform at the Westport Arts Center with his band, on October 5th at 3pm. "Bernard Purdie is a legendary drummer in American music. His Purdie shuffle has been heard on countless recordings from Aretha Franklin to Steely Dan,” says Westport Arts Center Jazz Curator Brian Torff. “He will be playing many of these hits with his infectious energy at the Westport Arts Center. It is the debut concert of the Jazz-Popular Music series and promises to be a great one!"
Purdie performed at the Westport Arts Center in November of 2011 to a packed house. The Purdie Shuffle had the audience on their feet and cheering for more. He is considered an influential and innovative exponent of funk. He is known for his strict musical time keeping and “The Purdie Shuffle.” Described by Drummerworld, Purdie is a “pioneer of the hybrid of blend of Jazz, Soul and Funky Tunes that is still light years ahead of his imitators.”
Bernard Purdie is known as “the world’s most recorded drummer.” At an early age, he began hitting cans with sticks and learned the elements of drumming techniques from overhearing lessons being given by Leonard Heywood. At 14, he purchased his first real drum set and supported his family with his pay from country and carnival bands. He moved to New York in 1960 and played with Lonnie Youngblood before landing his first hit with King Curtis. This led to an engagement with Aretha Franklin in 1970, and jumpstarted the beginning of his unparalleled career.
Tickets to the concert are $30/ $25 for Members of the Westport Arts Center and $10 for students. A limited number of discounted Senior tickets will be available for presale at the Westport Center for Senior Activities, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.westportartscenter.org and 203-222-7070.