Eddie Bonnemère facts for kids

Edward Valentine Bonnemère, known as Eddie Bonnemère, was an amazing African-American jazz pianist. He was also a talented musician and composer for the Catholic Church. Eddie Bonnemère made history in 1965. His special piece, "Missa Hodierna," was the very first Jazz Mass ever used in a Catholic church in the United States.

Early Life and Music

Eddie Bonnemère was born in Harlem on February 15, 1921. Even when he was still in school, he played the piano for churches in Harlem. After serving in World War II, he continued his music journey. He played with famous musicians like Claude Hopkins. Later, he earned a master's degree from New York University.

Eddie's Bands and Albums

In 1953, Eddie led his own small band, called a combo. He played with Ray Barretto at the famous Savoy Ballroom. A few years later, in 1955, he even had a Mambo band!

In 1956, Eddie joined the Baker's Keyboard Lounge club in Detroit. He started releasing his own music. His first album was Ti-Pi-Tin / Five O'Clock Whistle. Later, his trio recorded more albums. These included Piano Bon-Bons in 1959 and The Sound of Memory in 1960. In 1964, he released Jazz Orient-ed with the help of Kenny Burrell.

The First Jazz Mass

In the mid-1960s, Eddie Bonnemère became a key part of a new movement. This movement aimed to bring African-American culture into the Catholic Mass. Father Clarence Rivers led this effort.

In 1965, Eddie wrote his most famous work, the Missa Hodierna. This piece was a special Mass written for a jazz band and a choir. It was inspired by another great jazz musician, Mary Lou Williams. The Missa Hodierna was first performed in 1966. It took place during a church service at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Harlem. This made it one of the first Jazz Masses ever performed in the United States. The Mass was also performed at the Town Hall in New York City.

Later Years and Legacy

In his later years, Eddie Bonnemère continued to work as a church musician. He composed more religious music, including the Missa Laetare. He was also the musical director for the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle in Manhattan. The choir from this church even recorded his Mass for Every Season in 1969.

Eddie Bonnemère passed away on March 19, 1996. He left behind a legacy of beautiful jazz music and groundbreaking religious compositions.

Discography

• Missa Laetare (Mass of Joy) (Fortress, 1969)
• Mass for Every Season (Community of St. Thomas)
• O Happy the People (Fortress)