(70) “Contemplation” and Ron Carter
Standard Rating 6 Difficulty Rating 6
Ron Carter, born in 1937, is one of the most influential jazz bassists in history, with a career spanning over six decades and more than 2,000 recordings. Originally a cellist from Detroit, Carter switched to bass at 14 and studied at the Eastman School of Music before becoming a staple of the New York jazz scene in the 1960s. His work with Miles Davis’ “Second Great Quintet” solidified his legacy, and he has since led numerous projects, including his Grammy-winning 2022 album Skyline. A dedicated educator at Juilliard since 2008, Carter remains a humble and passionate advocate for lifelong learning in music. “Contemplation,” from McCoy Tyner’s 1967 album The Real McCoy, features Carter’s signature bass work and showcases his subtlety and depth. The piece is a meditative 16-bar waltz in C minor, with a minimalist bass line built on just three notes—C, F, and G—creating a grounded, reflective mood. The melody, played by Joe Henderson, is sparse and introspective, while Tyner’s harmonic language offers modal richness and emotional depth. Carter’s solo is melodic and thoughtful, aligning with the tune’s mood. A 2003 reimagining on Land of Giants features Bobby Hutcherson on vibraphone, offering a fresh take on this timeless composition.