[Dixielandjazz] Stop the Applause!

[Lowell Busching]

Sorry for the late posting in response to my post on applause for jazz 
musicians at classical venues. My mail system lost some mail for a time.

The story about the event in Vienna was a good one, but I think there is 
a big difference between an audience that is in a venue specifically to 
see a well known jazz artist and welcome him back on stage, plus knowing 
who he is and what he is going to play, then the situation I mentioned. 
I am personally convinced that the majority of the audience at the 
Whittier,Ca event had NO idea what they were going to hear, how it was 
going to be presented, and whether they even liked jazz or not.

As well known as the members of Ed's group were to the OKOM crowd, they 
were essentially unknowns to this group of classical music lovers.  They 
had season tickets for mostly classical music and most go to all events.
It was presented with class all the way by Ed. Tux and the presentation.

The demonstrative applause for Oscar Peterson in Vienna was both 
expected, I am sure, and personal. The description of their applause at 
the end also fits what Bob Ringwald noticed in Hungry. The rhythmic 
clapping etc. Again it is a cultural thing. More so in Europe I believe. 
Right listmates?  Usually saved for the end.

Bottom line to jazz musicians playing a classical venue. Don't take it 
personal if they don't applaud loudly for your every solo or even after 
every number. It is the end result that counts, and I think Ed got that.
On the other hand, don't insist they have a good time by dancing around 
on the stage, waving your arms and hands or leading the applause. Not 
cool. Just do your best music wise and they will appreciate it. I saw it 
  there, plus I was able to hear ALL of the solos!

Mad Dog

PS Don't wait on the stage for them to bring you flowers either.