A Life of Music, Activism, and Triumph
Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, in 1920, Hazel Scott was a musical prodigy from an early age. Trained by her mother, a classically trained pianist and music teacher, she quickly displayed a natural gift for the piano. At just four years old, she left the Caribbean with her mother and grandmother, settling in Harlem, New York, where she would become one of the most celebrated jazz musicians of her time. By the age of eight, Scott had already caught the attention of Professor Walter Damrosch at the Juilliard School of Music, where she became one of the youngest students to train under the prestigious institution.
Her early exposure to Harlem’s thriving jazz scene shaped her career, leading to performances with legendary musicians like Max Roach and Charles Mingus in iconic venues such as Café Society, the Cotton Club, and Carnegie Hall. These experiences solidified her place in music history as a virtuoso pianist known for blending classical music with jazz improvisation.
Scott’s talents soon caught the attention of Hollywood, where she broke racial barriers by appearing in films as herself, refusing to take on demeaning roles. She starred in movies such as Something to Shout About, I Dood It, and Rhapsody in Blue, showcasing her extraordinary skills and proving that Black artists could shine on the big screen without compromising their dignity.
In 1950, Scott made history once again when the DuMont Television Network gave her her own television show, "The Hazel Scott Show", making her the first Black American to host a nationally syndicated program. The show featured Scott’s musical performances alongside jazz greats like Charles Mingus and Max Roach, drawing in audiences across the country.
A Fighter for Civil Rights
Beyond her musical and Hollywood career, Scott was a passionate advocate for civil rights. She refused to perform before segregated audiences, demanding equal treatment for Black artists. She also led an actors’ strike when a film director attempted to dress Black actors in tattered costumes, challenging Hollywood’s portrayal of Black people. In one defining moment, Scott sued a restaurant for refusing her service, standing up against racial discrimination in public spaces.
The Red Scare and Her Exile
Despite her success, Scott’s career took a devastating turn in the 1950s when she became a victim of McCarthy-era blacklisting. In a bold move, she testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee, defending herself and her colleagues against accusations of Communist ties. Her outspoken stance led to Hollywood and television executives severing ties with her, effectively ending her career in the U.S.
Following her blacklisting, Scott left America and moved to Paris, where she continued to perform and record music. However, her influence and contributions were largely erased from mainstream American history – until now.
PBS Honors Her Legacy
"The Disappearance of Miss Scott" is the first documentary to comprehensively explore Scott’s life, ensuring that her story is no longer overlooked. Featuring archival footage, rare performance clips, animation, and exclusive interviews, the film captures Scott’s musical genius and her unwavering fight for justice.
A Long-Overdue Recognition
Scott’s pioneering contributions to music, television, and civil rights make her one of the most important yet underappreciated figures in entertainment history. Her story is one of talent, courage, and resilience, and "American Masters – The Disappearance of Miss Scott," ensures that her legacy is finally given the recognition it deserves.
FAQs
- Who was Hazel Scott?
Hazel Scott was a Trinidadian-born jazz pianist, actress, and civil rights activist. - What was her notable achievement?
She was the first Black American to host a nationally syndicated television show, "The Hazel Scott Show". - What was her most notable film appearance?
She starred in movies such as "Something to Shout About", "I Dood It", and "Rhapsody in Blue". - What was her role in the civil rights movement?
She was a passionate advocate for civil rights, refusing to perform before segregated audiences and leading an actors’ strike against Hollywood’s portrayal of Black people.
About The Author
