George Schuller question

Throughout the interview, George spoke mainly about jazz history. Knowing the evolution of music can give you a broader grasp of your instrument and of jazz (in this case). Is there an area of jazz or music history that you thing you lack an understanding of that might open up some new musical possibilities for you?

Did you catch that Bill Evans, in the short interview clip of him, said that too many young players at that time were focused on playing something innovative before they knew and could play the fundamentals? Similar to my first question, is there a part of music history that holds lessons for your own playing? Also, are you trying to do your own thing for the sake of being different? Bill Evans and Ornette did not TRY to be different. They simply heard a different music inside.