tromj

I played an "avante garde klezmer" gig a few weeks ago at Barbes and was amazed at how many people who were waiting for the late set band came over to me and told me they loved our band, and asked what it was.
If people are primed to listen, they don't need to be "educated".
I do not think the Jazz academic scene is any less connected to the living nature of Jazz than the classical academic scene is to Classical.

gridjam

Sounds like a cool gig tromj! Absolutely-Prime the people, and their ears will follow...Yet another major incentive to get out and support live music AND a good reason to play one's own tunes as well (or meaningful arrangements of existing tunes).

Billy B

I wouldn't say that Des Moines rocks, but we do have a few things happening when the tractor pulls aren't in town.

rowuk

If you all have trouble with the concept that Miles is dead, think about the classical players Gottfried Reiche is also dead, but we still manage to get decent Bach played.
In many respects jazz is a "young" art form where we still have direct 1st and 2nd generation influence. With jazz we have just about ALL of the originals recorded, so at least there is no speculation about what the composers intended. That is an incredible STARTING POINT. Take into consideration that you not only have the originals, but also many of the "cover" versions for comparison. For any of us trying to stretch the envelope, a great benefit.

As far as getting inspired, some 15 year old playing their first public chorus gets me really inspired to do more research and put more of the puzzle together!