It seems from conversations I have had with a number of top flight Canadian musicians that they all harbour pride and gratitude for the interest shown, in practical terms, for their creative endevours. This historic 'portrait' of the life and work of clarinetist Phil Nimmons appears to be no exception. From my standpoint as a listener and appreciator of jazz and big band music that comes from Canada I am grateful that this music is allowed to germinate and be available to us all.
There are three CDs, CD1 features Phil Nimmons talking about his life, his music, the influences , the highlights and more. An absorbing 50 minutes that demonstrate how this wonderful talent as a performer and composer/arranger developed to that point where one can consider him quite rightly as a Canadian 'National Treasure'. I am so glad that mention is made of his recording 'THE ATLANTIC SUITE' , for me one of the great big band adventures. This is probably still available on the Sackville label and should be sought out!
CD 2 and 3 were recorded at the Montreal Bistro in Toronto in 2005 with the Dave McMurdo Jazz Orchestra. Phil Nimmons' arrangements throughout and his clarinet interludes on several compositions are evidence that as a performer he has lost none of his edge. Phil Nimmons has not stood still in his approach to writing and in his Eighties now he get remarkably close to the cutting edge 'state of the art' approach to composing and arranging that many contempory big bands have today.
This is an exhilerating album set and it belongs in any school music library as well as it deserves to be in the collections of discerning collectors. I can only repeat what I have said before, please never miss a chance to explore the Canadian music scene; there are rich rewards to be enjoyed.
Some thoughts of Phil Nimmons.... click here
CANADIAN COMPOSERS PORTRAITS
PHIL NIMMONS WITH THE DAVE MC MURDO ORCHESTRA
CANADIAN MUSIC CENTRE: TRIPLE CD CMC D110055
Available via the above website link.
