From “An Autobiography” by Igor Stravinsky (1936)

I have just read this autobiography and I found many interesting comments and anecdotes. Here’s one:

“I should like to quote a remark of Rimsky-Korsakov’s that he made later on when I became his pupil. I asked him whether I was right in always composing at the piano. “Some compose at the piano,” he replied, “and some without a piano. As for you, you will compose at the piano.” As a matter of fact, I do compose at the piano and I do not regret it.”

Stravinsky, Igor (2011-05-24). An Autobiography (Kindle Locations 41-43). . Kindle Edition.

You know, it happened a long time ago (released in 1960 on Atlantic Records, catalogue SD 1311) but ‘Giant Steps” for all its rave reviews, critical reviews, detractors, supporters, worshippers, for all the tenor saxophonists who have practiced the first take solo to death, for all the reviews…..it is a momentus, gigantic recording that has a very narrow but Mile High seat of importance in the history of our music. Unique. Flawless. Impressive. Mind boggling, (add your own adjectives). SO LISTEN TO IT ONCE IN A WHILE, as though you’ve never heard it before. Imagine it recorded last week. IT STILL AMAZES. Trane…we love you!