Great anecdote. Our lives are so contingent on events beyond our control. Often, we never find out what doors close to us, either when we make a decision, don't make one, or for any other simple twist of fate. I enjoyed Brian Klaas's recent book "Fluke", which makes the point persuasively about the role of chance in our lives.
In a related note, I've long wondered how bandleaders tell their sidemen (or women) that they won't be using them on the next tour, record, whatever. I think I first thought about this years ago after a Pat Metheny show. I imagine a gig with Metheny to be life-changing for many musicians. Suddenly, you're touring the world, getting high exposure and good money for 200+ shows a year. Then the next project doesn't involve you. No doubt the exposure is good and leads to new things. But is there no expectation that you stay "part of the band"?
In this case, you were the "victim" (and ultimately beneficiary) of Red Rodney's memory lapse. I guess there can be multiple reasons, from the musical (bandleader "not hearing a trumpet" for this project), to financial reasons (tour didn't make its money and quintet must become quartet), to simple personality clashes. And sometimes the sideman launches their own career thanks to the exposure with the star.
I'm sure many would be interested to hear your take on the good (and the bad!) ways bandleaders inform their band members they are now surplus to requirements.
Love this story. I saw that band at the Vanguard. My old man was career USCG and there motto is Semper Paratus.
One gate closes and another gate opens as it die with Hamp Aka 'Gates'. Lionel Hampton's nickname was "Gates". Louis Armstrong gave him the nickname because of his swing style. Hampton said he was proud of the nickname.
Great anecdote. Our lives are so contingent on events beyond our control. Often, we never find out what doors close to us, either when we make a decision, don't make one, or for any other simple twist of fate. I enjoyed Brian Klaas's recent book "Fluke", which makes the point persuasively about the role of chance in our lives.
In a related note, I've long wondered how bandleaders tell their sidemen (or women) that they won't be using them on the next tour, record, whatever. I think I first thought about this years ago after a Pat Metheny show. I imagine a gig with Metheny to be life-changing for many musicians. Suddenly, you're touring the world, getting high exposure and good money for 200+ shows a year. Then the next project doesn't involve you. No doubt the exposure is good and leads to new things. But is there no expectation that you stay "part of the band"?
In this case, you were the "victim" (and ultimately beneficiary) of Red Rodney's memory lapse. I guess there can be multiple reasons, from the musical (bandleader "not hearing a trumpet" for this project), to financial reasons (tour didn't make its money and quintet must become quartet), to simple personality clashes. And sometimes the sideman launches their own career thanks to the exposure with the star.
I'm sure many would be interested to hear your take on the good (and the bad!) ways bandleaders inform their band members they are now surplus to requirements.
Thank you for your commentary, Angus. I may address the very points you raise in a future post. Stay tuned.
That's some story. I have studied with Garry for some time now, teaching the Banacos method. Brilliant pianist, great human being.
How the hell does a jazz musician blank on a fellow jazz musician named Coolman?
Haha…you would be surprised. There could be a few reasons.
Always interesting, thought provoking and educational to read your posts. Thanks, once again for sharing and hope to see you soon❤️🎶🎶🎶
Love this story. I saw that band at the Vanguard. My old man was career USCG and there motto is Semper Paratus.
One gate closes and another gate opens as it die with Hamp Aka 'Gates'. Lionel Hampton's nickname was "Gates". Louis Armstrong gave him the nickname because of his swing style. Hampton said he was proud of the nickname.