The funeral of John Coltrane

John Coltrane died at July 17, 1967

John Coltrane - "Obituary" Pamphlet from his funeral

An original "obituary" program from John Coltrane's funeral -- what a sad, sad day that was. Printed on card stock, this measures 8.5" x 5" folded, and as you can see it features the photograph from "A Love Supreme" on the front cover. Opened it measures 8.5" x 10" and has the program for Coltrane's memorial service, which featured performances by the Albert Ayler Quartet and Ornette Coleman's quartet. These were given out to those who attended the service. This is absolutely authentic, and came from his family, and is in near mint condition. Historic, to say the least.

Albert Ayler, Don Ayler, Richard Davis

The funeral of John Coltrane at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, New York, July 21st, 1967

© Raymond Ross

When John Coltrane died of liver cancer on July 17, 1967 Albert Ayler was asked to play at his funeral, which was held four days later at St Peters Lutheran Church in New York City. Ayler's work had a profound influence on Coltrane's and Coltrane would emerge as the leading proponent of Ayler. He regularly spoke of Ayler as an otherworldly sort of musician, often relented to him on stage, and was responsible for Ayler's signing to Impulse! Records, the leading jazz label of the 1960s. He also reportedly supported Ayler and members of Ayler's band financially at times.
There is no video of The Albert Ayler Quartet performing at Coltrane's funeral (Ayler opened the proceedings and Ornette Coleman closed them), but audio did sufrace in the Holy Ghost set released by Revenant Records. The audio is imperfect, but the recording has an aura that is strangely appropriate.

Love Cry / Truth Is Marching In / Our Prayer

Albert Ayler Quintet

A. Ayler on tenor saxophone and vocal
 D. Ayler on trumpet 
R. Davis on bass
 M. Graves on drums
— Holy Ghost: Rare & Unissued Recordings (1962-70) —

The other band was Ornette Coleman Quartet
They played Holiday for a Graveyard
.