Newfoundland Jazz History: HELP ME

The fine gentlemen in this photo are Buddy Pennington (drums), Ed Goff (tenor saxophone), Rob Mills (electric bass), and Ralph Walker (piano). I got this photo from Rob himself during one of our many chats about jazz music in Newfoundland. These four stars shine bright and are a part of intricate constellation of musicians known for their originality, open ears, and work ethic.

Since 2013, I’ve interviewed dozens of NL jazz performers and fans. The stories they share are inspiring and sometimes heart-breaking. I am reaching out to anyone reading this who feels connected to jazz performance in NL. In particular, I would like to talk to people who spent time at The Fishing Admiral in St. John’s in the early 1980’s where bands led by Ralph Walker held court. I have good connections to folks still around who worked and played there, but one person always leads to someone I never imagined meeting. It’s really exciting work and I look forward to any help you’d care to offer.

There’s a list a mile long of integral community members I haven’t spoken to yet. I am on my way! Please feel free to share this with anyone who cares about this music in this place.