You have to enjoy playing. The old-timers did, and that's…
“You have to enjoy playing. The old-timers did, and that's one reason why their music is a lasting music. I feel that I play jazz to entertain the listener, and you just can't do that unless you yourself are entertained at the same time.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Playing music should be enjoyable for both performer and audience; mutual entertainment sustains lasting art.
In simple terms: Enjoyment fuels lasting music.
Play for your own joy to entertain others.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- live performance
- music teaching
- band rehearsals
- personal practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you feel entertained when you play?
- How does your mood affect your audience?
If the performer isn’t entertained, the music may feel forced.