Now, A Jazz Moment...

MUSIC: "I Hear Music," CD: Hickory House Trio Reprise, Concord CCD-4853-2, (cut 1)

NEA Jazz Master Marian McPartland and her trio played a long running gig at the Hickory House, a famous New York nightclub. everyone used to stop by, including Duke Ellington.

Marian McPartland: He probably gave me one of the best criticisms I ever had. I got off after a set, and I would go and sit down at his table. His lady, Eve, was there. He would say to me, you play so many notes. I thought about it and after a while I thought, he's probably telling me I'm planning too many.

Even though renowned pianist Thelonious Monk wasn't a regular at the club, McPartland got him to stop by one night.

I met Monk on the street. I said, gee I'm at the Hickory house. I'm so enjoying playing some of your tunes. I'd love it if you'd come by some night. A dumb thing, to invite Monk to hear me play his music.

MUSIC POST: "Straight No Chaser," CD: Bossa Nova and Soul, Bainbridge S/2073, (cut 8)

The tall thin guy looking sinister. He had on a black raincoat and a beret, and he had a friend with him who was just as tall and sinister looking. The two of them came in, walked to the back of the room, and sat down, ordered some drinks. I kept looking to see if there was any reaction. They were just in earnest conversation the entire set, talking back and forth. Then they got up and left and Monk left me the check. ....good laf.....

MUSIC POST: "Straight No Chaser," CD: Bossa Nova and Soul, Bainbridge S/2073, (cut 8)

Legendary pianist and composer Marian McPartland This Jazz Moment was created by the National Endowment for the Arts. I'm Delfaeyo Marsalis.