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Classical Jazz Quartet: Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker"
ByStefon Harris, 28, received his master's degree in jazz performance from the Manhattan School of Music in 1997. Strongly influenced by the music of Igor Stravinsky, the vibraphonist balances melody, harmony and rhythm on his instrument with an easy-going, fluid technique. Veteran pianist Kenny Barron has had a great deal of success in the past 10 years or so working with widely different artists; as have Ron Carter and Lewis Nash. Coming together for this interpretation, the quartet conjures up marching soldiers, relaxed dancers, a gentle waltz, and folk idioms from around the world. With each of the four participating equally, the quartet gets its unique character from all directions. Highly recommended, this one comes just in time for the holidays.
Track Listing
The Swingin' Nut (Overture Miniature); Marche Touche (March); Groove of the Sugar Plum Fairy (Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy); Blues a la Russe (Russian Dance Trepack); Bedouin Dreams (Arabian Dance); Oriental Rhythm (Chinese Dance); Mirlitonova (Dance of the Reeds); Vaunce of the Flowers (Waltz of the Flowers).
Personnel
Stefon Harris: vibraphone, marimba; Kenny Barron: piano; Ron Carter: bass; Lewis Nash: drums.
Album information
Title: Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" | Year Released: 2001 | Record Label: Vertical Jazz Records
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