Jazz Articles about Charlie Parker

About Charlie Parker

Jazz Fiction

Introduction The life and times of a minor jazz legend are recounted through his narrated memories. In this fictional treatment of jazz music in the mid-to-late 20th century, issues of race, creativity, addiction and, ultimately, redemption, are explored. With a title taken from the immortal Charlie Parker tune, “Now's The Time" is an extended meditation on the artistic life. Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 You ...

Jazz Fiction

Now's the Time: Part 4-5

by Sean Murphy
April 11, 2015

Jazz Fiction

Now's the Time: Part 3-5

by Sean Murphy
April 10, 2015

Jazz Fiction

Now's the Time: Part 2-5

by Sean Murphy
April 9, 2015

676

Building a Jazz Library

Alto Saxophone

by Bob Bernotas
April 9, 2015

Of the many members of the saxophone family, the alto and tenor have emerged as its most prominent siblings. From the mid-1920s onward, many big band alto saxophonists have filled a dual role, best personified by the multi-talented Benny Carter, serving as the lead voice in the saxophone section as well as a featured solo improvisor. During that same time, Johnny Hodges began to reveal the alto's soulful, sensual character, applying the instrument to both ballads and blues.

Jazz Fiction

Now's the Time: Part 1-5

by Sean Murphy
April 8, 2015

785

Building a Jazz Library

Classic Bebop

by Chris M. Slawecki
February 28, 2015

Bebop played the same part in the history of jazz that rock & roll played in the history of pop: Seemingly equal parts genius, accident, hard work, and willful rebellion, it was born of its turbulent times and forever changed the course of music. Bebop is the sharp dividing line between swing and modern jazz. It was born in the early 1940s from jam sessions led by alto saxophonist Charlie Parker, trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, pianists Bud Powell and ...