Territory Bands were dance bands that crisscrossed the United States from the 1920s through the 60s. Typically moving from city to city playing one-niters in community halls and hotel ballrooms, the Territory Bands helped to disseminate popular music and were one of the key elements in spreading the popularity of jazz across the country.

Join musician, historian and writer Donald Meade and explore the history of jazz in the Midwest including the influence and importance of the Territory Bands. Born and raised in Illinois, Meade is a captivating oral historian and storyteller with a uniquely informed perspective. When jazz history is the topic of discussion, Meade is often called upon to join the conversation and is acknowledged by his peers as a trusted keeper of jazz history.

This event is supported by NEA Jazz Masters Live, an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.