Posted by David Pierce on September 26, 1999 at 09:10:16:
In Reply to: Jack could plunk a decent banjo.. posted by Jack on September 26, 1999 at 04:38:58:
Dear Jack,
Jack Vance told me he's played the cornet now and then, which was the cause of a small disagreement between us, for he claims the cornet and trumpet are the same, whereas I know they are different in both shape and sound, having grown up with a Dixieland cornet and trumpet player for a dad. Anyway, I think I read somewhere, maybe in the cover of one of his mysteries, that he plays drums as well. What a versatile guy! We both share an intense admiration for Bix, and for the New Black Eagle Jazz Band; I envy you your chance to jam with him. Y'know, it seems many of The Greats play Dixieland: Woody Allen; S.I. Hayakawa (is he still alive?); that necromancer A. Greenspan; R. Crumb. What is it about this music that attracts the best and brightest? My theory: the music, based on the blues, is both deep and happy at the same time; it is complex, provocative...yet it swings. And each time it is played it is new. Jack, what are your instruments? BTW, I think it's no accident that in The Netherlands are to be found some of today's very best Dixieland jazz bands as well as the densest concentration of Vance fans anywhere. Must say, am very grateful for your post!!
Regards,
David Pierce
: and croak out some snappy tunes, too. I played with him at the westercon in 198? a bit.. he only did ReaLLy old stuff.. pre 1930ish... he was a character worthy of one of his own books