Fresh Air
Jon Batiste Almost Got Kicked Out Of Juilliard
Dec 9, 2024
Jon Batiste, a Grammy-winning musician and bandleader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, shares fascinating insights about his new album, Beethoven Blues. He recounts his experience at Juilliard, almost getting kicked out for his melodica antics. The conversation dives into the healing power of music, his personal challenges, and the influence of both joy and pain in his artistry. Batiste discusses the complexities of musical interpretation and the importance of diversity in American music, showcasing a true embodiment of cultural evolution.
44:08
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Quick takeaways
- Jon Batiste's unconventional style at Juilliard almost got him expelled, ultimately shaping his unique, diverse musical approach to creativity.
- His new album, 'Beethoven Blues,' reinterprets Beethoven through blues and jazz elements, highlighting the emotional connections between these genres.
Deep dives
John Batiste's Musical Journey and Creative Process
John Batiste discusses the evolution of his musical journey, noting how his early experiences shaped his approach to creativity. Educated at Juilliard, he confronted challenges related to his unconventional style, which led him to combine diverse musical influences from genres like jazz, blues, and classical. His personal experiences inform his music, allowing him to engage in 'spontaneous composition' rather than mere improvisation, which involves mapping out a form and allowing for unexpected elements. This unique approach to music is evident in his new album, 'Beethoven Blues,' where he reinterprets Beethoven’s works through a contemporary lens, emphasizing their rhythmic and melodic connections to blues and jazz.
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