Jerry Jerome Interview by Monk Rowe - 4/12/1996 - Sarasota, FL

[@n.larson5994]

Amazing, amazing interview. First of all, Jerry Jerome was an extremely fine instrumentalist of the swing era. He was a solid and inspired saxophonist and clarinetist. - All the major Big Band leaders wanted his services. - And then they threw the bass clarinet at him and he said sure! But then his story about Kansas City, Mary Lou Williams and Basie at the Reno was just so interesting. And finally, almost as an afterthought, his story about Herschel Evans was so startling. It took me by complete surprise. (I must admit that I cried.) As most of us probably know, Herschel was one of the very, very greatest and short-lived of the jazz giants.He was just a complete stylistic master, and so original. He's often credited as the father of the Texas style of tenor saxophone. And of course he played a big part along side Lester Young in that great Count Basie band of the late 1930s. It was so interesting that Herschel confided with Jerry about his illness, and even let him examine him, with his death so imminent. (Herschel was 29 at his death.) And then being presented with Hershel's mouthpiece by his family! - That mouthpiece, if it can be located, would be a true museum piece. Lester Young's Conn saxophone from the late 30's is on display at the Institute For Jazz Studies at Rutgers University. I'm sure they would be glad to give Herschel's mouthpiece similar respect. Thanks Monk. This interview is I think is particularly important.

[@filliusjazzarchive]

Thanks for this, I recall feeling a bit humbled after the session. Jerry was one of many behind the scenes fellows who provided invaluable skills to whatever musical situation he was involved in. And modest about it! I also loved the Kansas City anecdotes and learned a new term, "the Boston" which he stated was a comping style. The inside story with Herschel Evans was quite moving and sad. Monk

[@reddustdiecastmodelrail1499]

Great video ! Thanks for sharing ! m

[@OleSwingmeister]

..... A marvelous interview with Jerry Jerome. Thank you for posting this one. Kudo's to Monk Rowe who allowed Jerry Jerome to tell his many, many stories.

[@filliusjazzarchive]

Thank you Dave, he was a real gentleman and one of the many "behind the scene" musicians who helped make others successful.