KEEP ON KEEPING ON is a poignant trans-generational story that was filmed over a four year period and explores the connection between ageing legendary trumpet player Clark Terry and young blind pianist Justin Kauflin.

Produced by Quincy Jones and Paula Dupré Pesmen this debut documentary by Mike Hicks is a must see. It tells the highly absorbing story of the relationship between Clark Terry – one of the founders of Jazz education – and his most recent protégé Justin Kauflin. As a young man ‘CT’ played alongside the giants of the big band / swing era – Duke Ellington and Count Basie. He mentored Miles Davis and Quincy Jones; and he draws on this experience to help 23-year-old Justin to overcome the performance anxiety and nerves holding his phenomenal talent back. What Hick’s captures in this film is the flowering of a friendship between the two men that transcends their mentor/student relationship. As Clark Terry’s health declines and Justin, who is completely blind, struggles to make his way in New York, their sessions together are mutually beneficial and incredibly poignant. Life affirming.

SCREENINGS:

Oct 10, 2014 6:30 PM – Rich Mix Cinema, Screen 1