Local Gospel and Jazz Legend, Shares Musical Journey

the choir and learn more about music and singing. It was here that Duncan’s love for gospel music flourished, and he soon developed a well-rounded repertoire of both old and new gospel songs, becoming a versatile musician. While Duncan’s passion for gospel remained strong, it was during his junior high school years that he was introduced to jazz, and his musical abilities truly began to shine. Playing in jazz combos throughout his high school years, Duncan’s talent caught the attention of music enthusiasts, and he received the highest accolades for his performances.

Upon graduating from high school, Duncan faced the choice of attending either Southwest Missouri State University or Drury College, both offering him full scholarships. He ultimately chose Drury, where he delved deeper into jazz and classical continued on page 7

By Mary Gartner, Staff Writer

Springfield, MO— Arthur Duncan, a talented jazz and gospel musician hailing from Springfield, has left an indelible mark on the local music scene. From his humble beginnings, learning piano from his mother at the age of five to becoming a renowned performer and educator, Duncan’s journey is one of dedication, passion, and a commitment to community. He, along with his twin sister, Arthurine, was taught to play the piano by their mother. “My mom taught me as much as she could,” says Duncan. Dedication and regular practice with his mother led the way through his elementary and secondary school years. Duncan continued his learning by listening, playing, and singing gospel music.

Born and raised on the north side of Springfield, Duncan’s musical journey began under the loving guidance of his parents, Arthur Sr. and Florence Duncan. His mother played the piano and organ for the choir at the Benton Avenue AME church, where she encouraged her young son to join

Access Wi-Fi from 5:30 a.m.-11 p.m., every day.

Resources

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Arthur Duncan

Continued from page 6 music under the tutelage of Dr. Don Verne Joseph (Doc Joseph). It was Doc Joseph who urged Duncan to attend the prestigious Stan Kenton band camp at Townsend State College in Baltimore, where he had the opportunity to practice with some of the most talented musicians from all over the United States. The experience at the camp not only expanded his musical horizons but also motivated him to strive for excellence in his craft.

The 24/7 library is within walking distance to several westside neighborhoods, businesses and restaurants; the Young-Lilley Park, and it’s next to a Springfield City Utilities bus stop on West Chestnut Expressway.

The 24/7 made its debut in early February with funding from the Friends of the Library and additional support from the State Library.

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If you’re a grandparent raising grandchildren or know someone who is, helpful resources will be highlighted from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Library Station. Visit with representatives from area organizations and gather information on community resources. It’s sponsored by the Library, NAACP’s Be a Jewel and Grands Raising Grands. Registration starts Feb. 5; call 616-0683.

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After graduating from Drury College, Duncan decided to play professionally rather than teaching. He played with a number of well-known bands such as The Fabulous Elites, The KC Express and the ABS Band. As his career progressed he was offered a position with Tony Orlando as musical director, but declined a life on the road. “I had many opportunities, but my path was not to be on the road…I feel God wanted that for me. I was here to take care of my father and my sister.” He continued on with his career as a jazz musician. He has played in many acts, opened up for some great performers as well as being a headliner himself. He doesn’t feel he missed anything.

Here are two more programs for families: can remained actively involved with the community, participating in numerous civic and NAACP events. He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and took on various entrepreneurial ventures, including owning a restaurant, a club, and a limo service. Despite his success as a jazz musician, Duncan never forgot his roots in gospel music. He continued to play professionally with his band, Saved, and served as the minister of music at churches in the Springfield area for many years. This dual passion for jazz and gospel showcased his versatility and deep connection to both genres.

June. Contact the MO Job Center at 417-887-4343 for more information.

Change 1000 Skills Academy they sang with Ernie Bedell and the ABS band…and that’s how we met — in high school. Then everybody took a different direction.” tion to both young and seasoned yond. To contact Arthur Duncan’s School of Music, or for booking information, interested individuals

2 Weeks – 36 Hours (6 hours a day) new job-training program for manufacturing, construction, transportation/logistics, information technology and healthcare industries. You can work another job while attending the training. At the end of training, participants are connected to employment opportunities with the same employers who designed the training program. Wages for most jobs start between $10 - $17 per hour. For more information or to register visit: www.changeonethousnad. org or call 417-887-4343.

Duncan imparts his wisdom to stu dents at the Arthur Duncan School of Music, offering music lessons for all levels of learning, from beginners to professionals. Aspiring musicians can benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience what he has accumulated over the years.

One Door

Are you without a home, at risk of becoming homeless, do not have a safe stable place to stay or need affordable housing, call 417-225-7499 or visit the Springfield Affordable Housing Center at 300 E. Central, Springfield.

While Duncan performs regularly at the Wherehouse Bar at 2463 W. Sunshine and other venues around town, the Jazz trio will be performing on August 2, at the Ozarks Empire Fair. Duncan’s dedication to music and commitment to his community

Making Sense of Money

Arthur is married to Cynthia Duncan, who currently serves as pastor for a mixed congregation at the New Mind, New Faith church in Springfield.

Picky Eaters and Problem Feeders is the topic from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, in the Library Center auditorium. If mealtimes and snacks with a child are a struggle, this is for you! Register by calling 883-5341.

Conscious Parenting: From Chaos to Calm, 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 16, in the Library Center auditorium. Conscious Discipline supports children’s healthy social and emotional learning. Parents learn life-changing skills that decrease problem

Between his high school and college years, Duncan formed his own band, Arthur Duncan and the Springfield Connection, which allowed him to further explore his musical prowess. Over the years, he played with several musicians and bands, always striving to keep the jazz legacy alive in Springfield alongside other influential local jazz musicians.

Throughout his career, Dun-

Northwest Project

Today, Arthur Duncan continues to inspire and share his musical knowledge with aspiring musicians. His current band, The Arthur Duncan Trio, features his longtime musical comrades, Richard Allen and Ernie Bedell. The trio performs regularly around Springfield, enchanting audiences with their soulful melodies and impeccable skills.

When asked about his current band, Duncan fondly recalls how his band members met while attending Central High school – “…there was an upright piano in the school cafeteria and I’d go play on it right before school. Next thing you know, everybody’s playing on it…we got a big crowd. He remembers singers, Karen Jackson, SueAnn King and Susan Marshall joining in. “These were the Supremes of Springfield, he muses, chuckling. “At one time

Offers a free program to help families revitalize their hope so they can set and meet personal goals with a community system of support. Program participants focus on specific ways to help families move from living paycheck to paycheck: Affordable Quality Housing, Quality Childcare, Transportation, Job Training and Educational Opportunities, Budgeting, Resolving Legal Issues, Accountability and Health and Well Being. For more information: contact the Northwest Project at: www. DrewLewis.org, SGFNWP@ gmail.com or 417-720-1890.

February 5, 12, 19 and 26 –(Basic Budgeting Series) Free interactive class to learn how to manage money better. Registration is required and you must attend all four sessions. Contact 417-888-2020, ext. 150 or register online at http://www. cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/.

Sat. and Sun., Aug. 5-6

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board presents these events during the Park Day Reunion

Letter to the Editor

Generations

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Documentary

to being truly inclusive. Nevertheless, I dream of an inclusive society with mutual respect: something that Americans can be proud of. Above all, I love because of this revelation. “Disagreement does not equal hate.”

Visit Timmons Hall in Silver Springs Park during the Park Day Reunion for popcorn and a screening of “Generations: African American Experiences in Springfield and the Ozarks,” a new documentary produced by Ozarks Public Television.

Time: Sat. and Sun., 3 p.m.

Fee: FREE