Jazz, Culture, and You

By Douglas Groothuis, PhD

When you attend a live jazz concert, there is no mediation by screens (although some musicians might read the set list or their sheet music on a screen); there is no auto-tune (insert imprecatory psalm here); there are no drum machines (insert imprecator psalm here, too); there are no special effects. The tunes are usually standards, which etched deep into America's aesthetic memory (if you take time to know); you hear the interchange of the musicians, without words, but with deep feeling and appreciation. It is called group improvisation.

Bhul-chul Han, a perceptive social critic, writes that our over-mediated and hyperactive culture ("burn out society," he calls it) needs "friendliness" and "lingering." Jazz is usually friendly. The musicians linger on the tunes, improvising on time-tested themes. In smaller venues, I find it easy to strike up a conversation with the musicians and with those attending. As I often say, "We jazz people need to support each other" given our small numbers. You have a bond in the music, and something important to talk about. Recently, I was talking to Joe, the drummer in The John Shea Trio, and found out that he savored a very rare jazz recording that I recently acquired in vinyl: "Crossings" by Herbie Hancock (1972). I found that this young man's mentor had been mentored by Billy Hart, the drummer on that release. And on it goes into the aesthetic wonderland.

Musicians love to talk about their chops, their instruments, and the tunes they play. They relish it when you mention something they played. You need "big ears" for jazz, on the bandstand and in the audience. I am always gratified when one asks, "Are you a musician?" Well, I used to play drums--but not often and not very well! I am a connoisseur of jazz, though, and I curate it through my words and life. Thanks be to God.

Therefore, I have a suggestion. Find a local jazz venue and attend a performance. Keep your phone use to a minimum (or keep it in the car), listen deeply, chat with the musicians and those attending. Receive friendliness and give it; linger, linger. If you like the performance, note that on social media and tell friends.