There is an adage that two heads are better than one. In the case of this morning’s 89.1 jazz Show, that adage rings true. I invited Woody Chenoweth who teaches Jazz Appreciation at Eastern Michigan University to join me on the air to wrap up Jazz Appreciation Month. I asked him to choose some of his favorite pieces, to explain them to us and to tell us what to listen for. I was not disappointed and neither were fellow listeners. Woody shared great stories of growing up in Pinckney and studying with challenging, insightful teachers – many with major EMU connections – and the music they led him to.
As Woody explained the details of music in terms that anyone could understand and picked out highlights for us to heed, I realized why he is respected by his colleagues in EMU’s School Of Music and Dance and most importantly, by his students. His playlist choices were refreshing – from Mr. Broadway by Dave Brubeck to Something by Snarky Puppy featuring Lalah Hathaway. Our conversation touched on many points – from the challenges of learning the craft to the joy of living in the moment and communicating emotions beyond words. Woody and I both agree that making music is about cooperating and creating with other people. Music is best shared live and experienced with others. I am very grateful to Woody Chenoweth for sharing his musical experiences and observations with WEMU live in studio. I could not have wrapped up Jazz Appreciation Month on any higher note.
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— Linda Yohn is the WEMU Music Director, and host of 89.1 Jazz. On twitter @LindaYohn or email her at studio@wemu.org
