American Jazz Greats: Past & Present is a masterful Television special that serves as a continuum of Jazz, America's first true art form. Billy Taylor was known as the most recognized voice for the preservation of Jazz. He passes the torch and challenge onto Allan Barnes. Barnes, who met, talked and played with Taylor , recognized the need to champion this cause of preserving Jazz. He formed an All star band, Peaceful Warriors, made up of five band leaders, who perform American Jazz Standards on the show which also includes their musical insights and Billy Taylor's reflections on his 70 years as an American Jazz Great.