Recorded March 2, 2009
Musicians came into the studio that day to honor legendary drummer John von Ohlen who has played with many jazz greats including Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Cal Collins, Rosemary Clooney, Tony Bennett, and Perry Como. He's also recorded albums with many other greats like Carmen McRae, Keith Jarrett, Kenny Poole, John Clayton, Mel Torme & the Marty Paich Orchestra, and Benny Carter. John von Ohlen was inducted into the CEA 2005 Hall of Fame.
Musicians who came into the studio for the roundtable discussion with John von Ohlen were Jeff Hamilton, Steve Schmidt, Lee Stolar, CarmonDeLeone, and Bob Nave. Robyn Carey-Allgeyer was the moderator. Jeff Hamilton is a drummer who is currently on tour with Diana Krall and will be appearing at Fraze Pavilion on July 7th. Pianist Steve Schmidt plays with Mr. von Ohlen in the Blue Wisp Big Band. Lee Stolar performs with him at Chez Nora. CarmonDeLeone is a well-known musician/conductor who has known John for many years. Bob Nave is a musician, currently in a couple of blues band, and a jazz producer who has also admired John Von Ohlen's work for years.
During the one-hour special, the group touches on the art of drumming. Jeff Hamilton talks about taking lessons from John von Ohlen in Indianapolis, Philly Jone Jones, and working with George Clooney on the movie, "Good Night, and Good Luck." CarmonDeLeone asks John and Jeff about the nature of drum solos. Steve Schmidt shares some of his experiences playing with John von Ohlen in the trio and the Blue Wisp Big Band. Jeff and Steve also talk about John's piano playing.
John von Ohlen talks about drummer Mel Lewis, bassist Lynn Seaton, and his current gigs. There's also a funny story about Steve Schmidt and "Auld Lang Syne," plus a detailed description of his drum equipment.
"A Celebration of John von Ohlen" was produced and hosted by Lee Hay for 91.7 WVXU with technical assistance from Chelsea VandeDrink.
Playlist:
10:00 Blue Wisp Big Band Well You Needn't 20th Anniversary Sea Breeze
10:03 Blue Wisp Big Band Straight Track 20th Anniversary Sea Breeze
10:08 Stan Kenton Malaga Stan Kenton Today Dutton Labs/Vocalion UK
10:14 Bill Walters The Music of Your Life Tribute to Frank Jennifer
10:23 Soundtrack Too Close for Comfort Good Night and Good Luck Concord
10:37 Mary Ellen Tanner You'll Never Know When the World Was Young Strugglebaby
10:52 Blue Wisp Big Band Well, You Needn't 20th Anniversary Sea Breeze