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

[Bradley M. Stone]

Aloha,

Blaise's comments re: Bob's understanding of harmony, and of his being underappreciated, are right on the money.  A big loss indeed.  I will always treasure seeing the Bob Florence Limited Edition Big Band at Carmello's by the Freeway in the San Fernando Valley district of L.A., with Bob Cooper, Eric Marienthal, Conte Candoli, Joel DiBartolo, and many other fine players - back in the mid '80's.

The light is on (but dimmer with Bob's passing).

Brad Stone


-----Original Message-----
From: jazzproglist-bounces at jazzweek.com on behalf of Blaise Lantana
Sent: Thu 15/05/2008 23:39
To: jazzproglist at jazzweek.com
Subject: RE: [JPL] Bob Florence, R.I.P.
 
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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


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