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Bevan Manson's avatar

You write so beautifully on the depth of jazz, the gift that keeps on giving. As we get older, it is just amazing how all the facets of music reveal more layers than one could originally ever anticipate. To what you so eloquently said I would add that form itself is another gift. The risks taken in a form written by, say, Benny Golson or Steve Swallow (or in a tightly knit work by Haydn or John Adams for that matter) can initially glide by us. But there they are, in all their understated glory.

James Armstrong's avatar

Excellent essay. Thanks for sharing, Mr. Primack.

Rami Friedman's avatar

I feel you!

Life is a precious, magical gift. Great live music reminds me of that.

In my life some stood out: Louis Hayes, Sun Ra, Bruce Williams, Ratso Harris, Buddy Terry, Tuesday nights at the peppermint lounge.

Here’s to a future that builds upon this wonderful heritage of love and adventure!

Michael Schuster's avatar

Great essay. Have you read any books by Daniel Levitin? I just started reading Music as Medicine which I find fascinating. He also wrote a book titled This is Your Brain on Music.

Manuela Thiess Garcia's avatar

Indeed, that is why I have always preferred listning to jazz more than classical music. The creative surprises!

Arthur Rosch's avatar

You're right, Bret. Jazz comes to you. It enfolds you and becomes essential to your inner life and landscape.