[Dixielandjazz] Jazz Fans - Atlanta Jazz Party

[Nancy Giffin]

From: Stephen Barbone <barbonestreet at earthlink.net>
[snippet] 
...Noticed a fan letter in June's "American Rag" stating that the recent
Atlanta Jazz Party was a waste of talent, because, among other things:
1. The writer didn't like the music he was "fed".
2. In his opinion, most jazz lovers like polyphonic harmony as in
ensemble playing over other jazz forms.
3. Fine ensemble players were there, but not "utilized" properly in Tpt,
Cl, Tb front lines.
4. Two sets of two guitars, (Howard Alden and Buckey Pizzarelli) was one two
many.
5. Four sets of two reeds (Bob Wilbur and Evan Christopher) supported by
Mark Shane, Phil Flanagan and Ed Metz Jr. who were about to produce a
CD, was much too much.

WHAT?...


Dear Steve,
Sounds like a typical Jazz PARTY to me. I wonder if the writer doesn't
simply prefer a Jazz Festival to a Jazz Party.  They are similar yet as
different as "cousins" can be, and each one appeals to a different crowd.  I
happen to enjoy both.  The Sacto. Jubilee offers elements of both, and
that's ideal. (Same with Dixieland Monterey, Elkhart, and Summit Jazz and
others.)  
Too bad this person had to give it such a bad public review. The AJP has
been around for 15 years -- successfully -- so I would assume that Phil
Carroll knows what he's doing, regardless of what one random fan has to say.
Love and hugs,
Nancy