[Dixielandjazz] What is a 'musician's musician'?

[Jazzjerry@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/7/02 9:13:41, stridepiano@tesco.net writes:

<< For me the most

important factor in a jazz musician's performance is that he should

demonstrate a  complete mastery of his instrument which goes beyond mere

competence. >>

Hi John,

Just as I suspected technique above 'tune and feeling' whereas a I suspect 
that someone who has no technical musical knowledge whatsoever would reverse 
the approach completely. For this reason the playing of Art Tatum leaves me 
completely cold and of the players of that era I would rather listen to Fats 
Waller, James P. Johnson, Teddy Wilson and a host of others because flashy 
technique does not get in the way of the music. Undoubtedly Tatum was a 
master of the instrument with that I certainly could not disagree but.....  I 
would not cross the street to hear him if one of the ones listed were on my 
side! Not that I would cross the street to see Charlie Parker either.

I also greatly enjoy the piano playing of much more primitive barrelhouse, 
blues and gospel players such as Arizona Dranes, Little Brother Montgomery, 
Cripple Clarence Loften, etc. etc. and would indeed rather listen to them 
than Tatum which you might find strange!

No - as a non-musician the level of technical ability is much further down my 
list of desired attributes than it is yours.

Do other musicians / non-musicians agree with me thoughts?

Cheers,

Jerry,
Norwich,
U.K.