I did miss a day yesterday, and I’m sorry for it. The highlight of yesterday was the clinic on Charlie “Bird” Parker, which discussed mainly his method of taking other songs and writing new melodies over them; “How High the Moon”, for example, became “Ornithology”, and some song about Indiana (for the life of me I can’t remember the title) became “Anthropology”. It is fascinating hearing not only the same set of chord changes but slight traces of the original melodies in Parker’s adaptations.
One thing I’m noticing about jazz camp this year is that I have a much, much greater appreciation of the music. I’ve always loved the old vocal standards, but this year I find myself being able to intelligently enjoy the instrumental music to a degree I haven’t previously. I look forward to ten o’clock when we all meet to listen to the music of yet another jazz great, and listen with rapt attention while the people on either side of me try to fall asleep.
Tomorrow my friend and I get to have a private lesson with one of the piano clinicians in the afternoon. I don’t know what we’re going to be working on, but I am so excited. I know I’m getting to sound like a broken record, but I am truly glad to have this opportunity.
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Dear Katie,
I am Hydeus’ mom and only today clicked into your incredible recording of your journey through jazz camp. You have the enthusiasm Hydeus would have shared. She would be (and probably IS) so very pleased that you are there honoring her memory. We all thank you. It is a pleasure to get to know you through your sharing and we look forward to meeting you and your family.
Hydeus left us with many unfinished works–poetry, songs, thoughts. We look forward to sharing more of her journey with you.
I am going to forward your letter and blog site on to many of the people who supported her through her journey.
Have a great two weeks. Hello to Rob Klevan.
Best to you,
Shirley Kiatta
Katie,
You know I have listened to you sing many times at Carmel High School events and am always so impressed with the clarity of your voice…it’s just beautiful. But when you sang at the Jazz Camp jam last night, I was so taken by your confidence and depth….I was speechless! I am certain that your performances are a culmination of all of your lessons, classes, etc. But I am so glad you have been given this opportunity to attend the MJF Jazz Camp …I can see that your appreciation is just geeting deeper. I look forward to the concerts this week. My thanks are going out to the Kiatta family for giving you this opportunity in honor of their daughter.
Alex, my son, has attended jazz camp for the past 6 or 7 years, and I am certain it has been one of the major postive influences in his musical AND personal growth! Having both of my sons there this year is just too sweet!
Thanks for sharing Katie,
Love,
Diana