The Gift of Jazz
When I was six my parents took me to a jazz show somewhere in New York. I think it was the Palladium, but my memory doesn’t stretch back far enough to remember the exact location. I do remember that there was George Shearing on the bill and I didn’t understand how a blind man could play the piano. How did he know what to play without seeing the keys? And there was the Miles Davis quintet or sextet, and I’m pretty sure I saw Trane when I was six. I wish I could have appreciated it. The education in jazz from my parents continued. There were Sunday afternoon concerts at the Village Gate — Jazz Interactions, they were called — and brunches and late afternoon shows at the Five Spot and the Red Garter, all when I was pre-teen and early teen. I remember my father going up to Kenny Burrell and asking if he’d give me lessons. That was not cool. Anyway, Burrell was warm and friendly and I noticed in my collection the other day an autographed copy of Blue Bash!, Kenny Burrell with Jimmy Smith on Verve signed: “To Diane and Hal, Best Wishes, Kenny Burrell.” All of which is a roundabout way of saying how much I appreciate this great gift my parents gave me and that I am quite sad to report that my mom just passed away unexpectedly. I will be taking a few days off from Jazz Collector, so there will be no new posts from me, but I am hopeful that you guys can fill in the slack. I will post an item right after I post this called: Reader Forum. Please use this to post new comments and keep an eye on eBay and keep the conversation going while I step away for a few days. Thanks.
Wow Al. So sorry for your loss. My dad also turned me on to jazz…being younger, this meant taking me to see Weather Report c.1980 I was also 6 years old. I’m sure I can speak for all the regulars when I say our thoughts are with you and your family.
I am verry sorry for your loss,Al.
Thank you also for shearing those Beautifull memories with us.
Although my parrents didn’t have jazz music, i am thankfull to them for stimulating me to listen to different music at a young age. That’s where it all starts….
Sorry for your loss Al. Condolences to you and your family. It is wonderful that you have those memories of your parents and something you shared.
Brian
Take all the time you need right now Al, your family needs you.
It is in these cherished memories passed down from our parents that shape each of us, and will endure a legacy that guilds us through until the next.
Our sincerest condolences to you and yours.
my most sincere condolences with the sudden passing away of your Mother. Wish you and yours the strength to overcome this painful loss.
Deepest regards to you & your family at this time Al, I’m really sorry for the sudden loss of your mother.
Those are great memories, great gifts, thanks for sharing them with us.
So sorry to read so sad news. Sincere condolences Al. Regards to your family.
I am very sorry for your loss Al. Sincere condolences from me as well.
Please accept my sincere condolences. thanks for sharing.