(An appreciation by Maurice J. Summerfield)
John
'Bucky' Pizzarelli, who died on 1 April from Covid 19 was a seminal figure in
the history of jazz guitar. A quick internet search will bring
up many detailed biographies and tributes highlighting Bucky's long and amazing
career.
His
first professional job as a musician was in 1944 with Vaughan Monroe’s
band. He then spent many years working with various bands, including
those of Skitch Henderson and Doc Severinson, on radio and television.
From the 1960s onwards he was featured in many small and large jazz groups
including the Benny Goodman band. He made two truly wonderful duo LP
albums with guitarist George Barnes.
Bucky,
playing his seven-string guitar (with an extra low A), had a very distinctive
sound. He recorded excellent albums with Zoot Sims, Dick Hyman,
Stephane Grappelli, Slam Stewart, Ruby Braff, Les Paul and in more recent years
with his son John Pizzarelli Jr.
I
first made contact with Bucky in 1978 when I wrote to him for
information for the first edition of my book, 'The Jazz Guitar'. He
replied by return with a great selection of photographs, biography and
discography.
About
a year later I met him in person in New York when he was playing with his trio
at the Cafe Pierre (Pierre Hotel ) in New York. I went there with
my friend Mario Maccaferri - the historic guitar maker (he made Django Reinhardt's
guitars) - for dinner. Bucky joined us for coffee and I could see he was
thrilled to meet Mario as Django was one of his heroes.
We
were then joined by Woody Herman who lived at the Pierre Hotel and knew Bucky
well. Certainly - a memorable evening for me. Bucky was a true
gentleman and I will always remember his modesty and courtesy in addition to
his marvelous music making.
If
you would like to know more about Bucky Pizzarelli, I can recommend the book 'A
Life in Music' by Terence M. Ripmaster (Mel Bay Publications #MB96988.
Maurice
J. Summerfield
1 comment :
Sad news. One of the great jazz guitarists. I have a fine CD by Rebecca Kilgore called
'I Saw Stars' featuring some top players among them Bucky on guitar. On it he plays some of the nicest '4 to the bar' acoustic rhythm that I've ever heard. You can just tell when Bucky comes in with that impeccable rhythm all the other guys lock into it. Everything sits on the irresistible swing he creates. I've also got a CD Bucky made titled 'Flashes' where, in between songs, he reminisces and tells a few delightful anecdotes. He's had a wonderful career and has done it all.
Roly
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