Ideas for the jazz buff @ amazon.com

the story of jazz

This is a great video for fans of jazz history, or anyone seeking a solid background on the birth and development of Jazz. Clips, interviews, commentary and rare concert footage present a history of America's most celebrated music, tracing its roots back to the 1830's. Featured performers include Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Mingus, Thelonius Monk, Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughn, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, and Billie Holiday

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Rahsaan Roland Kirk - The One Man Twins 

Truly a great video. Rahsaan Roland Kirk is a hugely underrated figure in jazz. This filmed performance shows his tremendous talent; great performances, good camera work, one of the best live jazz performance videos out here.

Jazz at the Smithsonian - Art Blakey 

This movie is a must for all Blakey fans. This was when Wynton and Branford Marsalis were playing with Blakey, and the performances were powerful & exhilarating.

Buddy Rich: Jazz Legend:Part 1 1917-1970

This video has some of the greatest vintage performances of Buddy Rich ever filmed. The video is expertly narrated by Buddy's longtime friend, Mel Torme. Mel certainly has the knowledge and class to comment on the World's Greatest Drummer. If you are a drummer, you must see this video.

Ron Carter & Art Farmer - Live at Sweet Basil

Ron Carter, Art Farmer, Cedar Walton and Billy Higgins!!!!
Recorded in 1990 at New York's Sweet Basil, four Jazz masters come together for a set of great jazz, performing originals written for the occasion and standards like "My Funny Valentine." Also included: rehearsal footage and illuminating interviews. Carter's bass, Farmer's trumpet and flugelhorn, Walton's piano and Higgins' drums have never sounded better!

Legends of Jazz Drumming pt.1

We hear so much about the founding fathers of the drumset, but the few recordings we have leave the drums way in the background. This video is perfect for those who wish to study the orgins of the art of playing drumset. Clips of early jazz drummers in action, including Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Baby Dodds, Paul Barbarin, Chick Webb, Dave Tough, Sid Catlett, Max Roach and Kenny Clarke.

Elvin Jones: "JAZZ MACHINE"

Super Bad Elvin Jones is captured in a 1994 live performance, with Sonny Fortune (reeds), Willie Pickens (piano), Chip Jackson (bass) and Ravi Coltrane (sax). Selections include "Is There a Jackson in the House," "Doll of the Bride" and "Ray El."