Description
Book SynopsisBrings a jazz legend into clear view
Trade ReviewThe musical legend is nearing his 80th birthday, and this book serves as a testament to his long career. It's a pleasure to have Baker's stories gathered in one place.July 17, 2011
* Bloomington Herald-Times *
[A] fascinating and well-documented book. . . The book is rich in detail and stories, personal and musical.
* Hoosier Times *
Congratulations to Monika Herzig and the team of experts she assembled to contribute to a thorough look at the musical values and achievements of David Baker . . . [It's] a worthy 80th birthday tribute to a unique musician-educator.
* Indianapolis Star *
Each chapter and contributor to the book is effusive in praise of Baker's personal touch. The reader is reminded that Baker is humble, funny, self-effacing, passionate and of great conviction. It may seem a hagiography at times but Herzig's book serves to inspire.
* JazzTimes *
Books about musical artists often do a good job of telling us about the artist's life or about the artist's music; only rarely do they do both well. Monika Herzig's new book David Baker is one such book.
* Bloom *
With the help of several key contributors, Herzig carefully traces Baker's career as a player, composer, educator and artist. It reads like the lives of several wrapped into one amazing person. . . . [T]his book is for anyone who wants to read about a class act, as well as a nice guy who wins in the face of great odds.
* Down Beat *
Overall, this is a fine tribute to the Indianapolis native and Living Jazz Legend, illuminating his 60-year career as performer, composer, and educator.
* Black Grooves *
Unlike many other examples of the [Festschrift] genre, this one has real substance. It is a fine tribute to this extraordinary man and a valuable contribution to the history of jazz for the last half-century. I recommend it highly.
* JJA News *
Table of ContentsForeword / Quincy Jones
Preface
Acknowledgments
1. Indiana Avenue and Crispus Attucks High School / Lissa May
2. A Star Is Born / Monika Herzig
3. New Beginnings / Monika Herzig and Nathan Davis
4. Defining Jazz Education / JB Dyas
5. 21st Century Bebop / Monika Herzig and Brent Wallarab
6. The Composer / David Ward-Steinman
7. David Baker and the Smithsonian: A Personal Perspective / John Edward Hasse
8. Social Engagement / Willard Jenkins
9. Coda / Monika Herzig
Appendixes
Bibliography of Written Works by David Baker
Discography
Selected List of Books, Articles, and Other Publications about David Baker
About the Contributors
CD Track Listing
Index
