MILFORD GRAVES

I met Milford Graves (who passed away Feb 2021)) a few times while documenting the work of dancer-farmer Min Tanaka. This video has a few clips I shot, mostly in 1988. He was known as a jazz/avant-garde percussionist but spent most of his time as an herbalist-healer, martial arts instructor and was on the faculty at Bennington College for 39 years. He was full of joy and lived what he preached about the relationship between a strong body and a strong mind.
The last time I saw Milford was not that long ago, improvising with Lou Reed, John Zorn and Terry Riley in NY. It was beyond amazing with powerful performers all around, but clearly Milford was the leading energy force.
There's an amazing film about him streaming on Amazon "Milford Graves Full Mantis." More about him here www.rollingsto...

[@SalikUlHaqq]

As one of his students from the 90's, I cant thank you enough for sharing this treasure.

[@backspinpromotions9037]

amazing footage Charlie

[@mattnieri1202]

Thank you so much for this video!!