15 Comments
User's avatar
Rick Lewis's avatar

In the absence of a musical background much of this sounds like an architect who is discussing the right way to build a cathedral. I can tell that they really know what they're talking about and that the structure will be beautiful, but the details are over my head. I'm intrigued, however, by the educational philosophy, especially since I have a dedicated young drummer in my house who plays many hours a day and listens many hours a day, self-studying and self-teaching from the very passion you wish to preserve. It's such a gift to see this process in real life. Also, reading especially your more recent articles that are focused on music, I'm wondering if there is any place you could point me to hear you playing?

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

Thanks for the helpful feedback. There's a wonderful Bill Evans (jazz pianist) interview with his brother entitled The Universal Mind of Bill Evans where he mentions the importance of the layman as he or she has not yet lost touch with their naivete that the expert has lost due to their proximity and familiarity. Best wishes to your son. A Drummer's Dream is a great documentary though it appears he has no shortage of intrinsic motivation.

Expand full comment
Silvio Castelletti's avatar

Yes! One of the best reflections on the essence of jazz and music in general ever made. :)

Expand full comment
Rick Lewis's avatar

Great. Thanks. I’ll look it up.

Expand full comment
Claire Lauren's avatar

Some of his music is on Spotify!

Expand full comment
Rick Lewis's avatar

Briiliant. Thank you!

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

You can also check out some clips on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/taiquinnwhyte/

Expand full comment
Rick Lewis's avatar

Thanks! Following you there now

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

Thank you Claire!

Expand full comment
Oscar Obregon's avatar

Loved learning so much about music, and rhythm, through your piece Tai!

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

I appreciate the support Oscar! Glad it was insightful.

Expand full comment
Helen's avatar

Love how you break down and blend in your experience and thoughts into this piece, and it definitely resonates! Please keep doing more of this <3

And yes to rhythms as the core of music -- please say it louder to any snob who can't look past 18th century European music composition practices (which are wonderful in their own rights, but very limiting if hanging on to them too tight)

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

Thank you for your thoughtful and encouraging commentary. Perhaps we are overdue for a conversation about music soon!

Expand full comment
Silvio Castelletti's avatar

Fantastic piece, Tai. And I happen to agree with your view 100%. Beautifully written too, but that’s no longer a surprise. :)

Expand full comment
Tai's avatar

Thanks so much Silvio! Likewise, your piece on jazz appreciation is a gem.

Expand full comment