#WednesdayWisdom with 2017 NEA Jazz Masters


By Samra Khawaja
A collage of all the jazz masters headshots.
We’re welcoming the 2017 class of NEA Jazz Masters by bringing to you some words of wisdom spoken by the honorees themselves. Here’s what they had to say about why they appreciate the arts, music, and jazz! To learn more about the new Jazz Masters, click here. Be sure to save the date for this year’s tribute concert celebrating the Jazz Masters on Monday, April 3, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the tribute concert are now available. Click here for more information.
Quote by Dee Dee Bridgewater that reads, singing is healing.
Quote by Ira Gitler that reads, The new musicians who have revitalized jazz have brought with them new listeners...May the music flourish and grow!
Quote by Dave Holland that reads, Older players should play with younger players and vice-versa so we have a chance to cross-pollinate our influences and backgrounds. This is how the music grows and expands.
Quote by Dick Hyman that reads, I found out long ago that if you practice enough, every piano in town feels great.
Quote by Dr. Lonnie Smith that reads, Music is a reflection of what’s happening at the time…The organ is like the sunlight, rain and thunder…it’s all the worldly sounds to me!