Indianapolis Jazz Legend

In episode 107 of Framing the Hammer, we chat with jazz legend and 4A Arts board member, Larry H. Ridley. Born in Indianapolis, Larry found a passion for music at the age of five along with the family practice of listening to the Bell Telephone Radio Hour. His mother put a violin into his hand to further his interest and he was soon taken under the guidance of Mildren Lynn with the Indianapolis Orchestra, who fostered musical programming for African American children in the city. 

Indianapolis in the 1930’s was the right place at the right time to join a jazz scene with such storied musicians as the Montgomery Brothers, Freddie Hubbard, David Baker, and J.J. Johnson. Besides playing clubs in Indianapolis like George’s Bar and the Turf Club (while in high school), Larry and these legendary musicians toured what was then called the Chitlin’ Circuit.

Later in college, Larry studied jazz at Indiana University with his friend and mentor, David Baker, who founded the Jazz Studies program at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. 

Jazz Ambassador

After college, fate took Larry to the University of Natal in South Africa alongside his friend, Darius Brubek for a spell as a teacher. Because of his time in South Africa and his American background, Larry testified in the hearings held during the fall of Apartheid. 

Always committed to education and spreading the appreciation and knowledge of jazz, Larry directed the “Jazz Artists in Schools” program with the NEA, founded the Rutgers University Jazz Studies Program, and founded the African American Jazz Caucus and the Jazz Education Network. 

Listen below to enjoy further looks at the Montgomery Brothers and Freddie Hubbard with whom Larry toured and played.