African american Quote by Yusef Lateef
“I started to study the flute in 1951. The flute has been utilized by African-American musicians as far back as the early Twenties. If you take a look at some of the old pictures of Chick Webb, then you will see the flute right there on the bandstand among the woodwinds.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Jazz Musicians Discussing Instruments, 1975
The flute, though often associated with classical music, has deep roots in early African‑American jazz, exemplified by musicians like Chick Webb.
In simple terms: The flute was used in early jazz bands.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and explore diverse musical histories.
Themes
music history
jazz
cultural exchange
Mood
curious
reflective
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- Jazz education
- musicology research
- band repertoire development
Key Concepts
instrumentation
genre blending
African‑American heritage
Questions to Reflect On
- How did early jazz flautists shape the genre?
- What other instruments have hidden jazz histories?
A Different Perspective
Jazz historians sometimes overlook non‑trumpet woodwinds.
