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Dick
Hyman packs a lifetime of experience into
this volume. He gives hints on improvisation
and arranging; insights into the art of
such jazz giants as Art Tatum, James P.
Johnson, and his one-time mentor Teddy
Wilson; a transcription of a previously-unknown
Bix Beiderbecke piece; samples of his
own compositions, including those for
Woody Allen movies; and more. Hyman recounts
experiences on stage, in clubs, and in
studios, describing the problems characteristic
of each venue along with his own solutions.
Finally, he invites us into his inner
world with thoughts, musings, and speculations
on musical matters ranging from piano
touch and performing Chopin to electronic
keyboards and modalism in jazz. It is
part how-to, part autobiography, part
"what if" and "why not".
Highly recommended.
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User review at Amazon.com |
