I remarked to Charles at some point in the interview that he had a great balance between the concrete practical and the abstract philosophy of music. Charles explains his view of how the brain works and the relationship between analytical thought and the creative side of the brain that is in touch with some higher power.
2:00 What it meant to get the call to play for Charles Mingus
5:50 How did it feel knowing you were taking Eric Dolphy’s place in the band?
7:00 What was it about your playing that Mingus was attracted to?
8:40 What was it about Mingus’ bass playing that distinguished him?
9:30 How did your playing change while with Mingus?
11:50 When Charles learned about Bird
13:40 How did Charles feel the first time hearing Bird live?
19:10 Charles’ role in the firm Bird
25:45 Thoughts on learning jazz by ear
30:20 Was Charles more of a natural player?
32:20 The distinction between left and right brain
47:00 Charlie Parker being in touch with something other-worldly
50:00 Old vs new school of jazz education
1:00:00 Learning how to learn
1:02:00 Gaining clarity on a subject
1:03:20 Being put on the spot by Mingus during performances
1:06:50 About Charles’ writing
1:09:00 About his CD, Jazz Dance Suite
1:13:30 The biggest writing challenge of the project
1:15:00 Charles’ tribute to Bird
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