Multi-instrumentalist Rashaan Roland Kirk was born on this date 91 years ago today in Columbus, Ohio. After losing his sight at a very young age he was educated at the Ohio State School for the Blind and went on to be one of the most unique musicians in the history of jazz.

By the time he was 15 years old, Kirk, whose birth name was Ronald Kirk, was playing on the weekends with rhythm and blues bands. His ability to play multiple instruments at one time made him a sensation at these performances. Kirk was primarily a woodwind player playing saxophones, clarinet and flute as well as recorder and nose flute. He also sometimes played trumpet. Usually performing with three saxophones slung around his neck he was able to accompany himself by playing chords often employing circular breathing.

Because of his unusual musical performance style, along with his concerts including comedic interludes, Black history lessons and the occasional political commentary, some did not take Rashaan Roland Kirk seriously, but his talent was most definitely recognized by critics as being worthy of notice.

After suffering a stroke in 1975 Kirk returned to the concert stage still playing multiple instruments simultaneously but using only one arm. He passed away after suffering a second stroke in 1977 the morning after playing a concert at Indiana University.

Here is a link to Kirk and his group performing Serenade to a Cuckoo at the 1972 Montreux Jazz Festival:

"SERENADE TO A CUCKOO"