David Amram: The First 80 Years

David Amram: The First 80 Years is a tribute to the works of the great musician and jazz-cum-classical-cum-film/music composer, David Amram. David has contributed immensely to the world of music and has carved his own niche.

The film has a treat worth relishing for the music buffs. It brings in its wake, ‘12th Night’, an opera written by David along with Joseph Papp. David Amram would also be seen in the film, conducting the Queens College Orchestra with conductor Maurice Peress. For those, who unwind with Jazz, the film includes Brooklyn Conservatory Jazz Ensemble directed by Earl McIntyre. The Jazz & Gospel Choirs directed by Renee Manning also form a part of the bouquet. David Amram is no ordinary name; he has to his credit more than 100 orchestral and chamber music works. Some of the well-known films for which the composer has lent melodious music include the likes of ‘Splendor in the Grass’ and ‘The Manchurian Candidate’.

He’s a magician when it comes to playing instruments for he’s adept at playing French horns, flutes, whistles, piano, percussion and several other instruments from as many as 25 countries. The film throws light on these aspects of his life, work and his contribution as an imminent personality in the industry. A look at his life is a once in a lifetime opportunity for people from all walks of life!

Telling the story of their lives to their doting fans seems to have become quite a fad among celebrities, with the theatres being struck with a new biographical film more often than one would expect. But the truth remains that very few of these stories are actually worth telling and gratefully the story of David Amram is one of them. The movie is everything that it promises to be; inspiring, poignant, dramatic and profound.

This movie is the story of a legendary musician, whose six honorary doctorates speak volumes of his acumen. While watching this one, you’ll be served with food for thought, and will be treated to a beautiful facet of life. The presence of an ensemble of gifted performers, who’ve been associated with David, goes on to make the movie all the more captivating.  Each of them adds his shade of color, making the movie an enticing mélange of talent that’s definitely worth a watch!