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Take Five With...
Take Five With Gini Wilson: The Duchess
Desert Island picks:
Piano Trio in a minor- Maurice Ravel (many versions available)
Maria Schneider: Allegresse
Mingus Big Band: Nostalgia in Times Square
Gidon Kremer: Hommage a Piazzolla
Milton Nascimento: Anything
How would you describe the state of jazz today?
It is rapidly becoming a cult figure. The new jazz is difficult and esoteric for most people to understand. The technical levels have shot over the moon- the best jazz for me is trying to go back to real lyricism. That is why folks are going back to the American Songbook. We need small local clubs to buy pianos and have a corner for live music. This is essential.
What are some of the essential requirements to keep jazz alive and growing?
I think that the demise of IAJE was a big loss. I think the high school jazz bands are a big plus. I am really excited to see a lot of girls/women rushing into jazz. As these students grow up, they will be wanting to hear/play jazz and that will keep the tradition going. but where are the small clubs??
What is in the near future?
CD Release Concert: April 11 Piedmont Piano Series, Oakland CA other concerts being planned, various SF club gigs
By Day:
Teaching piano in my own studio, 4 afternoons a week. Is that a day job?
If I weren't a jazz musician, I would be a:
stage actress or comedian. Or comedy writer.
