There are some story windows through which you can look and see the whole story of America, spread out before you. For example, you can look at the story of baseball and find in it the whole story of America. The story of the National Parks might be another one of those windows. Or the history of American churches.

We’ve looked through some of those windows on other episodes of the Apple Seed and so in this episode we’re peeking through the window of jazz. Sam fired up some recording equipment somewhere between sound check and downbeat of a recent gig with some friends of his – Ryan Tilby, Ian Camp, and Keith Sorensen. We coupled their feelings, observations, and experiences playing jazz over the years along with some songs and stories. Segments included in this episode:

What sparked an interest in jazz? (1:33)

Sweet Velzoe Brown by Norman Walker (4:26)

Velzoe Brown, was a jazz pianist who started playing as a teenager and continued to play well after her hundredth birthday. She was an inspiration for a lot of people, including Norman Walker. Learn more about Norman Walker by visiting: www.storytellers-conteurs.ca/Norman-Walker

The highs and lows of peforming with a jazz singer (9:26)

Dr. Henderson by Sam Payne (14:23)

Sam talks about his vocal jazz professor, who really made an impact on him. Learn more about Sam Payne and his jazz friends, who play together as "Savoy", by visiting: www.sampayne.com/savoy

What does it mean to be part of the jazz tradition? (25:15)

Remembering Marilyn Monroe by Kate Dudding (30:11)

It’s a story about Marilyn Monroe but it’s also about Ella Fitzgerald and how like many African American artists during the 1950’s, she was not playing first rate jazz clubs, even though she - and others - were first rate performers, just because of the color of their skin. Learn more about Kate Dudding by visiting: www.katedudding.com

The Glory of Improvisation (36:07)

The Sax Man by Ted Fink (41:06)

Ted meets a really good horn player who knew his dad. They talk about music pieces that they’ve each played in and the joy of big band days. This story also highlights that whether improvising or playing something that’s written down, there are moments when artists touch something greater than themselves. Learn more about Ted Fink by visiting: tedfink.com

Memorable Experiences (52:45)