The Clarinet in Early New Orleans Jazz: Style, Tone and Function

Abstract

Very different from its sound in classical music, swing, modern jazz or other genres, the authentic New Orleans Jazz clarinet tradition remains among the most distinctive instrumental styles in American music. This program will focus on sound and tonal variety of the clarinet in early jazz in its role as an accompanying or featured instrument in dance ensembles and its high wailing voice in brass bands and jazz funerals. There will be a discussion of the instrument's distinguishing characteristics and tonal possibilities. The high level of diversity of sound among early jazz clarinetists will also be examined as affected by equipment, training and physical characteristics of individual players. Live musical examples will be provided by the Dr. Michael White Quartet. Dr. Michael White is a leading figure in traditional New Orleans jazz and one of only a few to creatively carry on the rich clarinet sound and style of that city. For over two decades he has been the main consultant for traditional jazz for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. A relative of several first generation jazz musicians, he has distinguished himself as a jazz historian, writer, producer, and composer. In 2015 he received the Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association. Dr. White earned his PhD in Spanish at Tulane University and currently holds the Charles Keller Endowed Chair in the Humanities at Xavier University of Louisiana.