Carla Bley Quotes

A collection of quotes by Carla Bley.

Carla Bley (born May 11, 1936) is an American jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader. She is widely recognized as one of the most influential and innovative figures in modern jazz music. Born in Oakland, California, she began playing piano at a young age and quickly developed a passion for jazz.

Bley's career took off in the 1960s when she collaborated with renowned saxophonist and composer, Paul Bley. Together, they formed the Jazz Composers Guild and founded their own record label, providing an avenue for Bley's unique compositions to be released. Her compositions were characterized by complex, avant-garde arrangements that pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz.

Throughout her career, Bley has worked with many prominent jazz musicians, including Charlie Haden, Don Cherry, and Jack Bruce. She also formed her own big band, the Carla Bley Orchestra, known for its large ensemble sound and imaginative arrangements.

A prolific composer, Bley has released numerous albums as a leader and has been recognized with various awards, including the NEA Jazz Masters Award in 2020. Her music continues to defy categorization, blending elements of jazz, avant-garde, and classical music. Today, Carla Bley is regarded as a trailblazer in the jazz world, admired for her fearless exploration of musical boundaries and her immense contributions to the genre.

When you are studying jazz, the best thing to do is listen t

When you are studying jazz, the best thing to do is listen to records or listen to live music. It isn't as though you go to a teacher. You just listen as much as you can and absorb everything.

Carla Bley

Teacher

I got started when I was 3 years old because my father was a

I got started when I was 3 years old because my father was a music teacher and my lessons were free. Instead of learning to walk, you learn to play the piano.

Carla Bley

Learning