[JPL] Bob Florence, R.I.P.

[Blaise Lantana]

Losing Bob Florence is such a loss to jazz.  His understanding of harmony
and dynamics was exquisite and besides his delightful humor, his kindness
toward those less capable was legendary.  I sang with him every August at a
little festival in Prescott Arizona, the Arizona Jazz Summit. I saw him slip
in and share the piano bench with a high school girl he was teaching how to
comp with a big band.  She got it.

 Having Bob as an accompanist taught me more than any class about the
interaction of piano players and singers, and for me it was a little bit of
heaven I will sorely miss. 

At least we have the recordings to remember this under appreciated jazz
legend.
I especially enjoy his solo piano CDs, an elegant contrast to his band
arrangements. 

I will miss him, his immense and quiet talent and his generous humanity.  My
condolences to his family.  God Speed on your journey Bob Florence.

Blaise Lantana
Music Director
KJZZ Phoenix