The Presbyterian Writers Guild’s first-ever “Poetry Slam and Other Jazz” event was a rousing success. Nearly 40 people tuned in via Zoom November 15 for an hour’s worth of poetic and musical inspiration. The event featured readings by four acclaimed Presbyterian poets: Susan Baller-Shepard, Cláudio Carvalhaes (pictured above with his son, Ike), Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, and J. Barrie Shepherd. 

Jazz pianist Bill McConnell provided musical interludes that complemented the spoken words. Emcee Mike Ferguson engaged the poets in conversation about their interests and influences. One of the attendees, Paul Hooker, stepped up to the open mic and shared several of his poems. PWG president Emily Enders Odom closed out the event with an original poem as well.

Watch the recording of “Poetry Slam and Other Jazz” on YouTube: