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If you think about the intersection of government and jazz, you’re probably thinking that the two don’t have much in common. American trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis said the jazz ensemble is an example of democracy at its finest. It’s because jazz can be likened to a conversation, with a constant give-and-take, a joining and separating of the voices. In a jazz ensemble, you have to let everyone have the chance to have their say, and you should be cooperative while they’re having their say. You know it’s not supposed to be an argument. First, you have your say, next you let somebody else have their say, and then somebody else gets to have their say. When this happens, the ensemble is going to work right, as it should in the democratic process. That’s what democracy should sound like! I’m reminded of Duke Ellington’s “Third Sacred Concert” that was held in Westminster Abbey in 1973. During the introduction to the event it was said that “Today is United Nations Day, and if Duke Ellington was running the United Nations, there would truly be harmony in the world.” Musicians have the ability to connect with issues that are of great importance to regular people. Maybe we need more musicians in the political structure!
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I sound better on vinyl.