Trumpeter Ameen Muhammad (July 12, 1954 - February 27, 2003) grew up in a family which valued both Black traditions and Black Music. His grandparents told him that Black people were Africans who were forcibly enslaved and taken overseas, emphasizing the Black roots lay in Africa. At home, he listened to the full gamut of musics which comprise Great Black Music. These initial exposures eventually inspired him to study at the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) School of Music , which has trained many of Chicago's finest musicians.
Mr. Muhammad's performances include appearances on albums, CDs and films, featuring noted ensembles such as New Horizons Ensemble, Shadow Vignettes. Ameen Muhammad also founded and directs his own ensemble, Ameen Muhammad and Chicago 3D. Mr. Muhammad has toured the USA, Europe and Japan performing in concert, workshops and music festivals.
Mr. Muhammad is also an Afro-centric educator. He has developed and presents The Hip Trip , African-American history through the forays of Great Black Music. The Hip Trip has been presented to over 10,000 children and 3,000 parents throughout the greater Illinois area.
