Jazz In The Press

It may seem that jazz gets less coverage in the general press than it deserves, but don't blame the Associated Press or the San Francisco Chronicle. The Chronicle frequently runs substantial AP stories and pieces by its own staffers about major musicians and important developments in jazz.

Bassist Ron Carter was the subject of a recent Chronicle article by AP writer Charles J. Gans. Carter told Gans he rejects the notion that his old boss Miles Davis had disdain for the audience. He explains the circumstances that may have led to that impression. To read Carter's observations about Davis, the changing role of the bass, and his career, go here.

Reporter Sharon Cohen visited the musicians' village that Branford Marsalis and Harry Connick, Jr. helped to build in New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina.

The Chronicle's David Rubien had lunch with Lee Konitz. He found the alto saxophonist forthright, and amusing in spite of his irascibility as he approaches his eightieth birthday.

Thanks to Wolfram Knauer of Germany's Jazz Institut Darmstadt for alerting us to these stories. The institute is a fascinating place. I recommend a visit next time you are in the Frankfurt area. If you can't go, check out the institute's web site.