American Jazz Museum Receives Remarkable Collection of Jazz Icon Miles Davis

The Community Voice – Local Black News Weekly Newsletter, June 28, 2024

The American Jazz Museum located in the historic jazz district of Kansas City, has received a generous donation of an extensive collection of artifacts, recordings, and memorabilia associated with the legendary jazz artist Miles Davis.

The cherished gift of over 1,200 items about Davis’s life and career was contributed by the San Francisco-based collector, Rodman Marymor. This unparalleled assemblage presents thorough insights into Davis’s profound influence on music and its cultural implications.

Enrico Merlin, internationally recognized for being an expert on Miles Davis,has been invited by the American Jazz Museum to help review and understand this vast collection. With comprehensive knowledge on Davis’s work and impact, Merlin’s proficiency will assist in presenting this collection more effectively.

Dedication and Acquisition of the Collection

Marymor, a long-time collector and jazz enthusiast, was keen on finding a rightful home for his meticulously assembled collection – a location that would maintain these valuable artifacts and make them widely available to researchers and the public. Marymor found his perfect match in the American Jazz Museum.

Miles Davis Collection Highlights

• Over 300 magazine and journal copies
• More than 100 books
• Over 150 original photographs
• 500+ CDs featuring both official records and unreleased live performances
• An array of concert programs and ticket stubs

One notable memento is the 1982 CEBA Award (Communications Excellence to Black Audiences) given to CBS Records for the superb production of Davis’s album “Directions”. The honor, presented by The World Institute of Black Communications, recognizes excellence in the portrayal of Black narratives in advertising or public relations.

Future Plans for the Exalted Davis Collection

The American Jazz Museum, keeping in line with its mission of education and preservation of Jazz history, is thrilled to delve into the numerous opportunities the new addition brings. It is exploring a variety of ways to engross the public with Davis’s immense cultural impact, including exhibitions and educational programs.

Davis, renowned for his unique style and continuous evolution, will feature in a sound-focused exhibition that allows visitors an expedition through his diverse career. Future exhibits will offer a chronological and thematic narrative of Davis’s life and work.

“I hope this collection sparks people’s curiosity, because if you don’t feel something when you hear Miles’ trumpet, your heart is stone.”, remarked Merlin, further emphasizing Davis’s influence in the music world.