Sun Ra Arkestra

Marshall Allen performed with pianist Art Simmons, Don Byas and James Moody before enrolling in the Paris Conservatory of Music. After relocating to Chicago, Allen became a pupil of Sun Ra, subsequently joining the Arkestra in 1958 and leading its formidable reed section. He is featured on over 200 Sun Ra recordings, and has collaborated with Sonic Youth, Digable Planets and Medeski, Martin & Wood. Allen assumed the position of maestro in 1995, following the ascension of Sun Ra and John Gilmore. Marshall continues to be committed to the study, research, and development of Sun Ra's musical precepts and has launched the Arkestra into a dimension beyond that of mere "ghost" band by writing fresh arrangements of Sun Ra's music, as well as composing new music and arrangement.