The House of Swing at Columbus Circle presented two compositions commissioned by Wynton Marsalis for his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
Terry Waldo appeared on stage after an intermission to announce modestly—Waldo World. He represented is as the beginning of “Ragtime Into Swing” starting with the banjo, followed by “Bix Lix” with chord changes impressionistic for five saxes followed by “Striding Into Swing” from James P. Johnson into Duke Ellington’s influence. Terry Waldo introduced a young Gavin Rice as banjoist and identified Sam Chess, in the audience, for contributing a knowledge of orchestrating for Wynton’s musicians.
A refreshing syncopated banjo opened and Terry Waldo’s piano answered that continued with each band section, obviously fun to play! Individual scenes mimicked musicians vaudeville showmanship in seven minutes. Way too short!
All these recognizable voicings’ will make a great opener for a jazz history program.
The other Wynton Marsalis commission was composed by Dr. Michael White who entered stage right with clarinet in hand to explain how a NOLA Social Club might give a dance that would include early composers like Morton and major and minor blues he titled New Orleans Humbug.
His text follows:
NEW ORLEANS HUMBUG
Composed by Dr. Michael White
Michael White-clarinet with the J@LC Orchestra
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