[Dixielandjazz] Re: Ernie Carson

[Edgerton, Paul A]

Bill, Steve, Jim and interested parties,

I was off the list at time Ernie had you all so upset, so I can't comment on
that, but the remarks about Ernie have convinced me that there must be
another cornetist named Ernie Carson. My own experience of the man has been
completely different. I have played with him on a few occasions and found
him to be receptive and supportive of a struggling young player - me. While
he was living in Atlanta, I called him for advice on where to seek work in
the jazz world. He was gracious and answered all of my questions. While not
very encouraging about the prospects (with good reason), he was very
encouraging about continuing my involvement in music. I have run into since
then a time or two - I doubt if he would remember me - and in every case
found him to be open, and generous with his time. And no, I wasn't buying
him intoxicating substances. Perhaps I caught him in his good years...

  - Paul Edgerton