WMPG’s Jazz At The Movies team and the Portland Conservatory of Music are excited to present the next film in our Fall 2026 series, Bud Lives! A Love Letter to Bud Powell, a new documentary celebrating one of the greatest pianists in jazz history.
Bud Powell was one of the founding fathers of bebop and helped change the way jazz piano was played. Bill Evans called Powell his greatest influence, while Herbie Hancock described him as “the founder of the modern jazz piano.” Behind his incredible talent was a difficult life. A brutal police beating in the 1940s left Powell with lasting struggles, yet his passion and brilliance at the piano never faded.
Filmmaker Haeyong Moon brings Powell’s story to life in this heartfelt tribute, featuring rare footage of his performances and memories from jazz greats Jason Moran, T.S. Monk, Jackie McLean, Roy McCurdy, Lennie Tristano, and others.
Join us for Bud Lives! A Love Letter to Bud Powell on Saturday, November 14th, at 7 PM, at the Portland Conservatory of Music, 28 Neal Street. Admission is free, and donations are gladly accepted.