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Corners Quote by Charles Mingus

“Our nights didn't begin until after noon. Because in the old days, you'd start Birdland at 8:30 or 9 pm and play until 4 in the morning. Then you'd go out to the corner and talk to a couple of musicians - I used to talk to Oscar Pettiford a whole lot - you'd stand there till 7, 8 or 9, or else go…” quote by Charles Mingus
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“Our nights didn't begin until after noon. Because in the old days, you'd start Birdland at 8:30 or 9 pm and play until 4 in the morning. Then you'd go out to the corner and talk to a couple of musicians - I used to talk to Oscar Pettiford a whole lot - you'd stand there till 7, 8 or 9, or else go down to the jam session at Minton's.”

Charles Mingus

About This Quote

Source Interview: Jazz oral history, Charles Mingus, 1970s

Late‑night jam sessions often started after noon, reflecting the vibrant, unconventional schedule of jazz musicians.

In simple terms: Jazz musicians kept late‑night gigs.

Key Takeaway

Embrace unconventional schedules.

Themes

jazz nightlife creativity

Mood

reflective nostalgic

Type

historical cultural

When to use this quote

  • night club work
  • late‑night performances
  • musician networking
  • creative collaboration

Key Concepts

improvisation culture musician community

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does unconventional timing affect artistic output?
  • What balance is needed between creativity and health?
A Different Perspective

Such schedules can be exhausting and unsustainable.

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