Thanks to Jake Reed for sharing this wonderful interview with Peter Erskine. Lots of great lessons in life and music to be found here.
Just over a year ago I heard Erksine play and speak on numerous occasions at the Jazz Education Network's annual JEN Conference in New Orleans (unfortunately I'll be missing this year's conference in Atlanta...)
His early morning drumming with Charles Pillows' electric Miles Davis large ensemble project was brilliant as was his inspiring masterclass on how to support a band with musical taste, dynamics, groove and a relaxed feel.
I was also reminded of the time I interviewed Peter for my doctoral dissertation Melodic Jazz Drumming (UofT, 2015) in which he offered a simple but yet one of the most compelling statements I've ever heard.
On making personal and in the moment musical choices as a drummer, improviser, composer, etc...Erskine commented that: "really it comes down to this question: what do you want to hear next?"
Good question!
As per usual, when the Masters speak...we listen.
This will be my last blog post of the year before frequent Four on the Floor contributor and CJSW Jazz Today radio host Tim Mah offers his yearly picks of significant Canadian jazz recordings of the year 2024. With an ear to what's going on across the country and in today's jazz landscape, Tim always takes the time to come up with a compelling list of great music to check out and listen to.
I'll then be taking a wee bit of a break in the New Year while I hit the shed and prepare for some big orchestra shows coming up early in January.
So in the meantime stay tuned, thanks again for your all support in 2024 and enjoy the holiday season!
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