Since jazz musicians know how to improvise on their instruments and their voices, it’s no surprise that many of them are great homespun comic talents as well — the world is their stage for instant improvisation.
In case you don’t know the wonderful pianist Mark Shane, here is a recent on-the-spot example of his swinging melodic mastery:
Yesterday, Mark told me this story about the revered Al Haig:
Al Haig was playing with Chuck Wayne at Gregory’s and I used to sit in.
One night, Al sneaked up in back of me and I heard him say sotto voce right in my ear, “Would you sit in a while longer while I park my car?”
“Sure,” sez I.
“Do you know where I want to park it?”
“No, Al, where?”
“At home. Goodnight!!”
I never saw Al Haig again. He was sublime on those Bird recordings!! The great Al Haig … indeed, indeed!!
May your happiness increase!
Mark Shane literally glides up and down the keys. I love to hear him play,,He’s among my favorites, right at the top!. I love the wit of
AL Haig. Grateful Auntie