The Shakers n’ Bakers are an improvising ensemble that reinterprets the music of the utopian religious community known as the Shakers. Their repetoire is primarily drawn from the body of work known as the “Vision” or “gift” songs which sprang from the Shaker community during the period of inspiration from 1837-1850. These visoion songs were received in states of inspiration by young women of the shaker community, and their authorship is attributed to spirits which took possession of the recipients, thus the term “gift” songs. The texts of many of the songs are partially or entirely written in the languages of inspiration; some are identified loosely as African, Native American or “moon” languages. Other texts are in English contain a beautiful poetry echoing the unique worldview of the Shakers. The Shakers n’ Bakers use this body of music as a focal point for composition and improvisation. Orignal Shaker texts and songs are reinterpreted through the lens of Ayler and Lennon. The group is made up of many well known musicians on New York’s “downtown” jazz and new music scene including Mary LaRose and Miles Griffith (vocals), Jeff Lederer(reeds), Jamie Saft (electric harpsichord and other keyboard instruments), Chris Lightcap (bass) and Allison Miller (drums).
Last Updated: April 19, 2010
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