Bristol favourite kaleidoscopic musical collective The Fantasy Orchestra perform a selection of music by two iconic cosmic artists: Sun Ra and Moondog.
Sun Ra, who claimed to have been born on the planet Saturn led a free jazz big band known for its innovative instrumentation and the theatricality of its performances.
His widely eclectic and avant-garde music echoed the entire history of jazz, from ragtime and early New Orleans hot jazz, to swing music, bebop, free jazz and fusion. His compositions ranged from keyboard solos to works for big bands of over 30 musicians, along with electronic excursions, songs, chants, percussion pieces, and anthems.
Moondog was an American musician, composer, theoretician, poet and inventor. He is well known for his Viking costume playing home-made instruments on the streets of New York and respected by the likes of Charlie Parker and Stravinsky.
Largely self-taught as a composer, his work drew inspiration from jazz, Classical, native American music, and was strongly rhythmic and contrapuntal, in some ways anticipating the minimalism of Steve Reich and Philip Glass.
Standing event
All ages
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Sun Ra manifested an ecstatic vision of jazz that is still being unpacked and realized a half-century on.
Pitchfork
One of the most improbable lives of the twentieth century…an internationally respected composer [and] pop music sensation.
Robert Scotto,
Moondog The Viking of 6th Avenue
The venue
Bristol Beacon
Covid-19 Safety Measures
We’re committed to keeping you safe throughout your visit.
Please follow these safety measures when visiting Bristol Beacon.
Please do not attend this event if you have Coronavirus symptoms or have been asked to self-isolate.
Strongly encouraged
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Getting Here
Getting Here
Bristol Beacon is located on Trenchard Street in Bristol city centre, 200m from the city centre promenade bus stops. Find out how to get here on foot, by bicycle, bus, car, train and boat.
Access Information
Access Information
Our foyer, café and box office are fully accessible. Find out more about venue facilities, joining our access register, access booking online and website accessibility.
Eat & Drink
Eat & Drink
Visit Bristol Beacon in the day for coffee or kick off your evening in style at Bristol Loaf café with delicious natural wines from Native Vine. Find out more about opening times, menus and special events.