MusiConversations on Jazz

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Dizzy Gillespie - Season 1a Episode 5 - Originally Aired 2021

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As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman recounts a memorable experience with jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie during the 1982 Newport Jazz Festival in Madurao, Japan.

The Setting

  • Spyro Gyra participated in a George Wein production of the Newport Jazz Festival near Mount Fuji.
  • The festival brought together legendary artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Ritenour, Gil Evans, and Tanya Maria.
  • The remote festival location and limited nightlife turned musicians' hotel rooms into gathering spots, fostering camaraderie.


    • The Song “Dizzy”

    • Tom had just completed the *Carnaval* album with Spyro Gyra and carried a cassette mix of the track “Dizzy,” a tribute to Dizzy Gillespie, co-written with drummer Eli Konicoff.
    • The funky tune featured contributions from Randy Brecker, Hiram Bullock, and other talented musicians.


      • Playing the Track for Dizzy

      • On the bus ride to the festival, Tom approached Dizzy and asked if he’d like to hear the song dedicated to him.
      • Dizzy enthusiastically listened to the track on a Sony Walkman, dancing and expressing his approval.
      • After hearing it, Dizzy praised the song and Randy Brecker's trumpet but humorously asked why he wasn’t invited to play on it, leaving Tom both flattered and regretful.


        • Reflection

        • The experience of receiving Dizzy’s approval on a song written in his honor was a career highlight for Tom.
        • Despite missing the chance to collaborate, Tom cherished the opportunity to share the moment with such a legendary figure.


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          MusiConversations on JazzBy MusiConversations on Jazz - Host Tom Schuman