YOUR SOURCE OF JAZZ AND MORE IN WASHINGTON DC AND THE WORLD
Advocate for Preserving America's Classical Music, "JAZZ",
it's African American Legacy, Roots and Heritage!
The Music of the 20th & 21st Century!
Blog design by
Executive Director & Founder
Washington DC Jazz Network
The Article "Modern Drummer Magazine" Refused to Publish
Alfred Nobel And The Invention of The Microphone"
Paquito D’Rivera defies categorization. The winner of twelve GRAMMY Awards, he is celebrated both for his artistry in Latin jazz and his achievements as a classical composer.
Born in Havana, Cuba, he performed at age 10 with the National Theater Orchestra, studied at the Havana Conservatory of Music and, at 17, became a featured soloist with the Cuban National Symphony.
As a founding member of the Orquesta Cubana de Musica Moderna, he directed that group for two years, while at the same time playing both the clarinet and saxophone with the Cuban National Symphony Orchestra. He eventually went on to premier several works by notable Cuban composers with the same orchestra. Additionally, he was a founding member and co-director of the innovative musical ensemble Irakere. With its explosive mixture of jazz, rock, classical and traditional Cuban music never before heard, Irakere toured extensively throughout America and Europe, won several GRAMMY nominations (1979, 1980) and a GRAMMY (1979). Read more...
I strongly believe that technology is here to help the art form, not to overwhelm it, but tragically, with a very few, each day more and more scarce exceptions, the invention of the microphone, that is credited to the German Emile Berliner in 1876,
Inventor of the microphone
Alfred Nobel
The Inventor of Dynamite
has resulted almost as damaging as the dynamite by Alfred Nobel, that both have been used and abused into creating irreversible material destruction by the later, as well as serious damages in the good taste of listeners by Berliner’s artificial amplification device. All of that with the support of sound engineers and the consent of the musicians –some of them talented professionals–, that increasingly ask for more and more volume in their reference speakers, and consequently into the house. It seems like if we’ve all reached the conclusion that the louder, the music is heard better, the volume is supposed to be a synonym with energy, and the one that screams more is the one that wins. Doesn’t it go that way?” How sad!
I have witnessed the volume and reverb go up so high on Dave Valentin’s flute, that it converted his gorgeous, natural sound into a synthesizer, more appropriate for a Heavy Metal band, than to play “Obsesion”, the beautiful Pedro Florez classic and classy tune he and his many fans enjoy so much. Nowadays the circus, the unnatural pyrotechnics, the addiction to gimmicks for provoking easy applauses, bad taste and that excessive volume have hit Jazz and popular music as a tsunami, so everything now is forte and fortissimo.
Rudy Van Gelder, recording engineer
A few years ago the legendary recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder, who made all those famous recordings for Impulse, Blue Note, CTI and Atlantic with Coltrane, Monk, Hubbard, Rollins, Miles, Lee Morgan and all those hip jazzmen of the 50’s and 60’s, had the guts to say – I believe it was in a Down Beat interview – that “ Jazz pianists don’t want or don’t know how to get a decent sound on the piano”.
And to certain point he was right since it is really difficult to find jazz pianists with the elegant, delicate, yet swinging sound of Kenny Baron,
Teddy Wilson,
Makoto Ozone,
Renee Rosnes,
Oscar Peterson
or Bill Evans,
and there is no doubt that some of the fault lies on the drummers that everyday play loud and louder, forcing the pianists to bang on the keys, to ask for more volume on their wedges and thus destroying the inherent acoustic character of the instrument.
( I bet that was one of the reasons that Nat “King” Cole, many times didn’t use a drummer in his trio). “Give me more piano on my monitor” is the usual request, and my answer is always another simple question: Why don’t you play more softly so that you can hear what the “freakin” pianist is playing…You left the brushes at home or what?
The great Argentinean pianist Jorge Dalto was convinced that drummers were carriers of the “original sin”, and when they did play another way –meaning softly and tastefully–, it was with great effort and going against their nature. “Otherwise they would have taken up the harp or the violoncello, no?”, he would say half in jest.
I think Dalto was exaggerating a little bit, since still you are able to find drummers like Ben Riley,
Ernie Adams or the wonderful Brasilian
Edu Riberio to make you swing your butt off without breaking your eardrums. So please do not misunderstand me.
95% of hearing loss is irreversible
"Impeccable musical balance"
Modern Jazz Quartet
The drum set, as well as the brass and even the saxophones, are instruments that have strong sonorous presence, so I think that by having that in mind all the time would make a big difference in balance and finesse.
–“If you can’t hear the guy next to you, you’re playing too loud. That’s the only way to play in tune…”–, is a sentence I hear since my early days at the conservatory. But how in heaven can I listen and play in tune with the guy next to me if I am not even able to hear my own horn with all that noise around me? And then we have the bass players, that since the electric bass emerged on the scene, many of them think that they’re always playing with KISS, Metallica or Deep Purple. Usually they ally with the drummers, and I even think that they buy earplugs together, in sets of four, so that in between themselves can have some fun while make life unbearable to the rest of the musicians.
Wynton Marsalis told me once that he thought that mikes are here to enhance the music, not to cover it.
So probably, that's why they have removed even the contact microphone from the contrabass of Carlitos Henriquez ( I love his walking bass!) in teh JALC orchestra, so drummers have to come down to hear what his partner in the rhythm is doing.
Of course, this thingabout turned off mikes applies primarily to indoor concerts, and I also believed in this concept, until certain evening, at the amphitheatre of our annual Jazz Festival in Punta del Este, trumpet player Terrance Blanchard ordered the removal of all the microphones, including that of exquisite pianist Ed Simmon. And guest what: miraculously, everything was heard crystal clear and with tremendous energy and swing. The only thing required was to be quiet and listen with attention, as that is what music was invented for in the first place, isn't it?
Jazz is a very democratic musical form. It comes out of a communal ...~~~Max Roach
This is an article I mailed to George V Johnson Jr a few days ago that I thought all musicians, sound engineers, club owners, concert producers and fans should read. Enjoy the music and conversation~~~Jimmy Heath
Comment
This is an interesting article as a drummer who has been out of work and not hired because of the stigmatism of, "he plays to loud" and not given the chance to prove otherwise this touches on a place that has brought on severe pain, depression and something I've had to overcome in a big way. I've played, performed and recorded under a wide array of circumstances and at an early age learned to play softly, musically and with dynamics. Unfortunately because of later associations with loud, boisterous, dynamic fusion players and seen mostly in that light (as if none of my other work existed), I have been thrown out of the box of consideration for recordings and collaborations and certainly left out of work as a jazz drummer. My family and I have suffered financially because of this. My many years of working with the giants of the music and all of the sudden Lorraine Gordon of the Village Vangard, (I suspect there had to be others as well) says she'll not have me perform/work there anymore because I play too loud, started this thing, the stigmatism. Even though Max Gordon (the real owner of the Vangard) before his death was a great supporter of how and what I played and we often had many conversations face to face with me and then there were the gifts he would give me like Rahsaan Roland Kirk's horn whistle or a tambourine and cowbell. Always Max would say to me, "Ronnie, you're a great imaginative percussionist, I love the way you can play subtly and loud when needed, keep the time and switch up using percussion sounds on the drum set". At any rate after all this its been a very hard life not being able to make a living from this music I love and am a part of because of this thing and the followers that still perpetuate this stigmatism. I know my enemies out there are loving the fact that they have taken work away from me (not just because of this thing) and that's all good because I am still here, still playing, writing and making beautiful music. Even though the recognition of my contributions are not in the main stream I have found peace in knowing the love I have for the music continues to keep me moving forward and gives me a knowledge and base to compose from life experiences, dynamically, full of emotion, taking on happiness and gratitude each time I am given the opportunity to play. And I am blessed because God has given me a talent to provide using my musical gifts for my family in a way that is unique, honest and full of gratifying hard work. If one care to research my work it is out there and available here www.ronnieburrage.biz and all over the internet, however at present you will not find me on the mainstream jazz festivals or clubs, I pray someday soon that will change. Also here is a great body of work where there was no amplification, orchestrated by Hamiet Bluiett: The Clarinet Family - Hamiet Bluiett - CAM Jazz
www.camjazz.com/8024709051127-the-clarinet-family-cd.html
Recorded live in November, 1984 - an acoustical concert with no amplification except for a bass amplifier on For Macho - during the "Berliner Festspiele", ...
Revalyn T. Golde, thanks for your comment. You hit the nail on the head!
The lure of having a pay date over having a play date causes too many musicians to fold and take their cards off the table. Music is the science of life and if you are (trying) to out fox science you will end up with hybrids that make you sick; not rhythms and melodies keep you well. What if all the musicians faced with that choice woke up one morning and said, hell no. I ain't doin' that sh_t no more! Then maybe the art forms would open doors to new horizons that kept us whole. Lawd chile, what you say? Nirvana!
Executive Director & Founder
Washington DC Jazz Network
Since 2008
New CD Release
Walk Spirit Talk Spirit
Talkin Jazz! Speakin Jazz! Real Jazz!
Listen to WPFW
Robyn's Place with Robyn Holden, Friday 7 - 10 pm
Good Music and Conversation
Special Guest
George V Johnson Jr
Friday, July 22, 2022
8:00 pm
featuring New CD Release
Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit! Wpfwfm.org
Are you a Music Connoisseur and have a Extensive Knowledge of Music History? Test your skills
Sign Up Today and Play Jazzology with host Willard Jenkins
#SavageContent
#Jazzology
@SavageContent
Looking forward to this Sunday Serenade come Sunday April 24th, when VTY Jazz pays their respects to trombonist Benny Powell. All of this will be going down live at the fabulous Cutting Room and just to pull your coats, their will be no squares allowed �de42. If your Hip you know the deal and where to be come Sunday April 24th. Reservations are strongly suggested, 917-882-9539. April is Jazz Appreciation month, but for the Hip, Jazz appreciation is 24/7 twelve months a year. If your not Hip you need to get Hip quick because you're missing some great music and vibes. Hope to see you live and in-person at the Cutting Room on April 24th.
Congratulations, Herb Scott, on being named Recipient of 2022 JOSEPH R. BIDEN LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD HONOREE
#POTUS
A True Cultural Warrior Thank you for your hard work and dedication to America's Classical Music "So Called Jazz."
Keep on Swinging!
Orrin Evans
The DC Jazz Festival in collaboration with the Howard University Department of Music is presenting jazz pianist Orrin Evans in a 3 day jazz residency beginning on March 15-17, 2022.
For me, music and life are all about style~~~Miles Davis
Cock your hat - angles are attitudes~~Frank Sinatra
A different type of church
Straight Ahead Live Jazz
Every Friday 6-9pm
"It's the best deal in town"
Bring the family * Spread the word * Let's celebrate!
Dick Smith
Executive Producer
A Member of the Washington DC Jazz Network
November 5, 2012
JEANNE GIES
A Member of the Washington DC Jazz Network
w/ Master Guitarist
New York Post observes that he is "...one of the very finest young guitarists working today."
October 29, 2012
An Advocate for Preserving America's Classical Music, "JAZZ", it's African American Heritage, Roots & Legacy throughout the world!
Executive Director & Founder
Washington DC Jazz Network
The Eddie Jefferson School of Bop
Hello George, I am proud to be a member of the Washington DC Jazz Network (WDJN).
I am able to find out what's going on in town and on the east coast
and to network with other musicians. I get a lot of my news from the emails I receive from WJN.
I also would like to thank you for supporting the Jazz
program at Howard University in Washington, DC. Keep up the great work.~~~FRED IRBY
WATSON-JOHNSON
DANCE THEATRE
Trenton New Jersey's Premiere Dance Institution
Presents
"NUTCRACKER CAFE' AU LAIT" Sat., Dec. 22, 2012 RSVP Today!
Bring the Entire Family!
Available for
Bookings & Tours
609.403.6070
Ms. Carol
Artistic Director Founder Choreographer
B.F.A. Howard University 1980
A Member of the Washington DC Jazz Network
A Member of the Washington DC Jazz Network
Washington DC Jazz Network Welcomes
Public Service Announcements (PSA) on radio and television stations.
Support the Network that Supports you!
A different type of church
Straight Ahead Live Jazz
Every Friday 6-9pm
"It's the best deal in town"
Bring the family * Spread the word * Let's celebrate!
Dick Smith
Executive Producer
A Member of the Washington DC Jazz Network
Posted by billy jones bluez on February 28, 2024 at 8:14pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Posted by billy jones bluez on February 18, 2024 at 4:14am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Posted by billy jones bluez on February 8, 2024 at 8:44pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Posted by ArtistPR on January 19, 2024 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
New York City, NY — In a heartfelt celebration of love and legacy, seasoned crooner Marc Eliot is set to captivate audiences once again with the rerelease of two timeless classics, “Speak Silently” and “One of the Good Guys.” These musical gems, adorned with poignant lyrics and Eliot’s signature vocal finesse, commemorate the dual wedding anniversaries of Marc’s parents and Marc and his wife, both couples affectionately known as “Mr. and Mrs.…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on January 11, 2024 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Orlando, FL — Solomon Jaye is excited to release his Premiere Single of 2024, “Sight of Love”. Jaye’s latest single drops January 26th on all streaming platforms with Spotify Pre-save available now. The first of several to come in this year, “Sight of Love” takes a deep dive into Jaye’s jazz roots and gives the listener a soulful introduction of things to come from this introspective song writer. Written and performed by Solomon Jaye and featuring the…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on December 29, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Calabar, Cross River, Nigeria —
”As simple as it sounds, “I Know I Can” gives a clear message of hope to all… |
Posted by ArtistPR on December 28, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Delivering jazzy melodies and compelling harmonies of The Ray La\’ Mar Experience, Ray La’ Mar evokes warmth, relatability, and love through moving storytelling
Philadelphia, Pa —The Ray La’ Mar Experience transcends genres, seamlessly blending Jazz, R&B, and Rap, creating a musical fusion that captivates hearts. With a focus on love, relationships, and the complexities of life, Ray La’ Mar’s music is an eclectic amalgamation…
ContinuePosted by billy jones bluez on December 20, 2023 at 5:48pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Posted by billy jones bluez on December 7, 2023 at 11:22pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Outlaws of the Blues Highway (instrumental)
Posted by billy jones bluez on December 2, 2023 at 7:32pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Posted by ArtistPR on November 21, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
A genre-defying sensation, Eric Thomas is a world-class saxophonist and producer
Atlanta, GA —November 21st, 2023 – A driven and talented Miami-born saxophonist, Eric Thomas has captivated audiences with his scintillating fusion of Jazz, Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, and Funk, since the release of his debut album, “Take It…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on November 19, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Straddling a diverse blend of music streams, Arman Ayva’s jazzy and groovy new single, “Playful Comebacks” is an expression of ingenuity
Montreal, Quebec, Canada —November 17th, 2023 – Arman Ayva’s energetic, jazzy, and groovy new release is one that defies boundaries and traditional musical conceptions, inviting listeners to a unique musical experience. Titled, “…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on November 17, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
An artist, composer, pianist, and producer, Scarlett Deva showcases her unbridled musical prowess with a spellbinding jazz record for the ages
Toronto, ON, Canada —Having released on October 31, 2023, Scarlett Deva’s five-piece collection fuses modern jazz with classical elements, delivering a sonic experience that is both contemporary and timeless.
Scarlett Deva’s One Woman Show has…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on November 6, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
With the release of his mesmerizing and soulful record- “Xclusive Monogamy,” creative powerhouse Brandon Allen is gearing towards a new chapter
Round Rock, TX —November 6th, 2023 – Brandon Allen, known in the music world as Allen B, is a rising star in the Jazz and Blues genres, reshaping the music soundscape with his soulful and evocative musical styles. While still a budding presence in United States due to limited media…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on November 3, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Calabar, Cross River, Nigeria — “Joy to the World” a song written by a hymnist, Isaac Watts, has become one of the best Christmas carols and continues be an appealing and delightsome song during the Yuletide. With this dexterous composition by PraiseGod Music of this melody, the sweet ambience of Christmas would be…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on October 31, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
The ultimate song of the season, “It’s Just Another Christmas Song” is a gem in the realm of holiday music, rife with rich and memorable imagery
Shirley, NY —September 14th, 2023 –Darren Fewins’ brilliant addition to the beloved holiday season takes its place amongst time-honored holiday season classics, destined to become a staple in festive playlists worldwide. Darren Fewins, a prolific artist who is known for his…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on October 31, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
Slated for a November release, the talented artist’s newest record makes an inventive and soul-stirring use of the saxophone, magnetizing all
Atlanta, GA —October 31st, 2023 – Eric Thomas, the Miami-born saxophone player known for his genre-bending fusion of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, soul, funk, and more, is driven to take the music scene by storm with the upcoming release of the second single from his highly anticipated…
ContinuePosted by billy jones bluez on October 20, 2023 at 8:12pm 0 Comments 0 Likes
Please Come Home for Christmas
Wishing ALL of our friends and loved ones a very happy holiday season as we prepare for a brand new year.
..we love each and…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on October 18, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
A heartfelt and moving portrait of emotions, Steven Bundick’s latest release cements his place as an extraordinary saxophonist and vocalist
Landover, MD —October 11th, 2023 – Saxophonist and vocalist Steven B’s soul-striking latest venture is his stunning EP- “It’s Time” which forms a testament to his incomparable musical prowess. The striking EP, comprising four original tunes, offers a look into the raw and deep chasms…
ContinuePosted by ArtistPR on October 4, 2023 at 8:00am 0 Comments 0 Likes
New York City, NY — New York City, NY – In the wake of the recent passing of the legendary Tony Bennett, musician Marc Eliot is embarking on a heartfelt endeavor to pay tribute to the iconic singer’s legacy. Eliot has composed a poignant song titled “New York Blue,” and he is seeking renowned artists like to cover this emotionally charged composition.
“New York Blue” is a musical embodiment of the essence of New York City, capturing the bittersweet…
Continue© 2024 Created by WASHINGTON DC JAZZ NETWORK. Powered by
You need to be a member of WASHINGTON DC JAZZ NETWORK to add comments!
Join WASHINGTON DC JAZZ NETWORK