Brought together by their love for Jazz and the aspiration to revive the genre, Delbert Dale Anderson (Trumpet Artist), Edward William Littledield II (Percussionist), Michael Bartholomew Glynn (Double Bass Player) and Reuel Vallester Lubag (Pianist/ Drummer) are the Native Jazz Quartet from the United States of America.
The band is in Kohima, Nagaland, representing USA, Partner Country of the 25th Hornbill Festival. Ahead of their performance at the Hornbill Music Festival on 2nd December 2024, the members interacted with the media where they expressed their honor in representing their country, showcasing diversity and strength. Hailing from diverse origins, the members of the Native Jazz Quartet emphasized that sharing their culture is significant to them, as they proudly represent their nation and their indigenous heritage.
Formed 15 years ago, the Native Jazz Quartet is a hard-swinging and high energy performance act based on the swing/bebop tradition, using only native/folk melodies in their arrangements. They mentioned that their goal is to grow the Native Jazz movement and to attract a national and international audience of all ages. They noted that Jazz possesses immense potential and brings a fresh perspective. The Quartet feels that though indigenous jazz has existed, there is room for improvement. Remarking that Jazz beautifully blends various influences, they mentioned that they found a 300-year-old song and had transformed it into Jazz and said they are using jazz version to uplift old songs.
Speaking of their experience in Nagaland, they said that engaging with the locals proved to be a delight and it is inspiring to witness so many new ideas and the enthusiasm of individuals eager to share their talents, culture, and traditions with others.
The Native Jazz Quartet commended the Naga people’s pride in safeguarding their culture and traditions. The members were of the view that indigenous knowledge provides effective solutions to problems, making this vibrant indigenous festival even more significant in preserving our heritage. The more indigenous festivals one host, the more attention we draw from decision-makers, they opined.
“We are more alike than different. We can work together without sacrificing anyone. United, we can enhance the world,” the Native Jazz Quartet remarked. Pointing out the shared elements such as war cries from some of their regions, they noted the similarities in their music, feeling a deep connection through these musical expressions. They shared their excitement about collaborating with Naga artists, embracing risks, and infusing music and fun into their work.
Michael Bartholomew Glynn, a seasoned bassist born in Seattle, has collaborated with jazz legends such as Eric Alexander, Dave Grusin, and Louis Hayes, while also exploring classical, calypso, and Arab/European music. His versatile performances have spanned the Pacific
Northwest, New Mexico, and the Bay Area.
Delbert Dale Anderson, a Diné jazz trumpet artist and educator, blends Navajo “spinning songs” with jazz, funk, and hip hop, while using his music to preserve and share Diné
history. Anderson’s work, including projects like “The Long Walk: 1,674 Days,” reflects on historical narratives and his community’s resilience.
Reuel Vallester Lubag, a multi-talented musician and educator based in the Pacific Northwest, is known for his work with the Native Jazz Quartet and his involvement in programs like the US Department of State’s American Music Abroad. Lubag’s vast performance history includes collaborations with jazz greats such as Dizzy Gillespie and Joe Williams, and he continues to perform regularly at local jazz venues
Edward William Littlefield, a percussionist and composer of Lingít heritage, brings indigenous traditions into the jazz realm through the Native Jazz Quartet and his acclaimed solo projects. As a cultural ambassador, Littlefield has composed for film, theatre, and the stage, including groundbreaking work on a Lingít opera.
