Prairie View students and alumni gathered to welcome the return of a homecoming pastime Saturday night, which featured the jazz stylings of Prairie View alumni.
The Prairie View All-Star Band consisted of Gerald Stewart on tenor sax and flute, Robert Sanders on piano, and George Thomas on flugelhorn and miraphone.
The concert was held at Café 4212 in Houston’s historic Third Ward.
Hosted by KPVU 91.3 and underwritten by the law offices of Vic Bonner, the event served as a tribute to jazz and offered an upscale alternative to the more common homecoming festivities.
KPVU’s own Jeff Kelly, host of the Jazz Suite, served as master of ceremonies. He engaged the audience by saying, “It is Saturday night! So pull out your phones, call your friends, and tell them that this [concert] is a swinging place to be!” Kelly even offered his phone for service for those without.
The atmosphere was filled with the smiling faces of former Panthers reconnecting with old classmates and brought back memories of long ago, as one patron explained.
“I remember when we had a jazz concert every homecoming,” said Anthony “Cooter” Brown, class of 1973. “We would have a good time, with names like Jimmy Smith and Quincy Jones,” he added, describing the caliber of artists who would frequent the past celebrations.
Accompanying the trio was Al Campbell on bass guitar, Craig Green on drums, and PV alumnus Robert Phelps from the class of 1943 on alto sax.
The all-star lineup included not only great musicians, but also great educators and servants to the community.
Sanders, who performed one of his own pieces titled “Love Trip,” is currently an adjunct professor of the Jazz Ensemble at Prairie View.
Stewart, class of 1960, continues to play with countless jazz artists and also offers private lessons.
Thomas, a community activist, is the general manager of KTSU 90.9 FM, but still bleeds purple and gold.