The Moore Street School Foundation is continuing the music series to raise funds to help with the restoration of Moore Street School with our monthly Jazz Concerts.  This month we are presenting Warren Atiba Taylor and the Ascension Project.

• Early Years and Education

  • Warren Atiba Taylor was born in Richmond, Virginia.
  • He began his musical journey by learning to play the piano.
  • During his first year of high school, he discovered the saxophone, which quickly became his primary instrument and passion.

• Howard University and Professional Beginnings

  • At Howard University, Taylor was part of the esteemed HU Jazz Ensemble for four years.
  • He had the opportunity to play with high-caliber jazz musicians and participated in several recordings.
  • In 1977, he traveled as a State Department Ambassador with the ensemble to Romania, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
  • Taylor's dedication to jazz earned him a National Endowment of the Arts Jazz Study grant in 1978, allowing him to study under the mentorship of Ken McKintyre, a contemporary of Eric Dolphy.

• Career in Amsterdam

  • After graduating from Howard University in 1983, Taylor relocated to Amsterdam, Holland.
  • He became a prominent figure in the jazz scene there, playing and recording with renowned groups like Fra Fra Sound, known for their jazz calypso fusion.
  • Taylor also joined bassist Wilbur Little's group during his time in Amsterdam.
  • His international experience expanded further as he performed with organist Jimmy Smith and trumpet virtuoso Woody Shaw.
  • Taylor had the privilege of playing at prestigious events like the North Sea Jazz Festival, where he collaborated with trombonist Steve Turre, showcasing his versatility and skill on the saxophone.

Warren Atiba Taylor's journey from Richmond to international stages highlights his diverse musical talents and dedication to jazz music.

• Contributions and Recognition
  • As a member of the Richmond Jazz Society, Atiba Taylor has been actively involved in promoting jazz music and contributing to the local jazz scene.
  • He has performed at prestigious events such as the DC Jazz Festival, the 2nd Street Jazz Festival, and the Williamsburg Winter Jazzfest from 2017 to 2024.
  • Taylor's performances at these festivals often featured him showcasing his skills on both saxophone and chromatic harmonica, demonstrating his versatility as a multi-instrumentalist.
  • Apart from his performances, Atiba Taylor is also recognized as a dedicated jazz educator with over two decades of teaching experience, passing on his knowledge and passion for music to aspiring musicians.
  • His musical style and approach are heavily influenced by jazz legends John Coltrane and Joe Henderson, whose innovative contributions to the genre have inspired Taylor's own musical journey.
  • Taylor particularly cherishes the time he spent in Webster Young's band, further shaping his understanding and appreciation of jazz music.

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