By Bill Gottlieb
"The all-time greatest woman jazz musician." That typically was the
kind of language used in describing Mary Lou Williams.
Mary Lou was a fabulous pianist, as well as a noted arranger, and
composer. But she also had another role of distinction: she was a
sort of mother spirit for innovative musicians. Her spacious Harlem
apartment was a salon where, especially in the 1940s, many of the
best jazz people hung out.
I was a friend of hers and particularly remember when, in 1947, she
suggested I show up for a "gathering." The turnout was small, but
choice. Among the group were three disparate geniuses who were, or
became, members of Down Beats Hall of Fame: Dizzy Gillespie, Jack
Teagarden, and May Lou, herself! To top it off, there were two of
the most prominent be-boppers: pianist-arranger Tadd Dameron and
pianist Hank Jones.
It was a serious session. More talk and listening to records than
music making. Even Dizzy was subdued, smoking a pipe and looking
like an elder statesman. Perhaps the lightest touch came when
Teagarden started fiddling with some of Mary Lous miniature,
toy fiddles.
Finding Jack Teagarden in that group was surprising. Here, among the
boppers, was the laid-back Texan trombonist and singer who was a
celebrated touring partner of Louis Armstrong and a frequent member
of old-time combos. But everyone loved the guy, for his personality
and musicianship.
A memorable night!
