Search - John Jensen, Robert Redd :: Conversations

I first heard Robert Redd thirty years ago. I was playing trombone in the band of Frankie Condon and Robert was holding forth in the trumpet section. He sounded terrific and I was surprised to learn that he was also one heck of a fine piano player. I seldom see Mr. Redd holding a trumpet these days?he's in high demand for his world class piano playing. Over the years Robert and I have been on the bandstand together in hundreds of musical environments ranging from trios and quartets up to large concert jazz ensembles. It's always been fun and musical. A few years ago we were asked to present tunes from the pens of great American tunesmiths like Irving Berlin, Harold Arlen, Hoagy Carmichael and Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn and Cole Porter. We've done a lot of that, logging hundreds of hours playing great tunes for folks who love listening to and learning some of the stories behind the songs. Now we're pleased that Tom Mindte has elected to make some of these sounds available to you. Here's to your enjoyment of our musical dialogue. We hope to see you at a performance! - John Jensen
What a pleasure it was making this recording. John Jensen and I have shared a close friendship and musical association for many years. Though most of our playing together has been with groups ranging from trio settings to big bands, in recent years, we've had a number of occasions to perform as a duo. When Tom Mindte approached us about recording in his setting, I knew it would be a great experience. John is truly one of the great trombonists on the scene today. Having the opportunity to accompany him and recording a repertoire for which we both share a deep appreciation, was indeed, a great experience. I hope you enjoy our conversations as much as we enjoyed creating them. - Robert Redd