I Remember April
Phil Woods
Remembering Phil Woods (1931-2015)
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In 2005, at the Marciac Jazz Festival in France, the talented Phil Woods graced the stage, accompanied by a stellar ensemble comprising Ben Aronov on piano, Reginald Johnson on bass, Doug Sides on drums, and the Conservatoire National Regional Orchestra.
Philip Wells Woods, born in Springfield, Massachusetts on November 2, 1931, was a multifaceted artist in the world of jazz. He excelled as a bebop alto saxophonist, clarinetist, bandleader, and composer. His musical journey led him to study under the mentorship of Lennie Tristano, a profound influence, both at the Manhattan School of Music and The Juilliard School. Notably, due to the absence of a saxophone major at Juilliard during his time, he received coaching on the clarinet from his friend Joe Lopes. While he didn’t emulate Charlie “Bird” Parker, the iconic figure in the world of bop saxophonists, Phil Woods earned the moniker “The New Bird,” a title also attributed to other alto players like Sonny Stitt and Cannonball Adderley at various points in their careers.
In 1979, Woods etched his name in the annals of jazz history with the recording of “More Live” at the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, Texas. One of his most recognizable contributions as a sideman was the captivating alto sax solo in Billy Joel’s “Just the Way You Are.” He also left an indelible mark with his alto sax solo on Steely Dan’s “Doctor Wu,” a track from their critically acclaimed 1975 album “Katy Lied,” as well as Paul Simon’s 1975 hit, “Have a Good Time.”
The story of Phil Woods is interwoven with the jazz legacy through his marriage to Chan Parker, the widow of the legendary Charlie Parker, and his role as a stepfather to Chan’s daughter, Kim.
In 1978, Phil Woods, alongside Rick Chamberlain and Ed Joubert, founded the Celebration of the Arts (COTA) organization. This visionary initiative had its beginnings in the bar at the Deerhead Inn in Delaware Water Gap. Over time, it evolved into the Delaware Water Gap Celebration of the Arts, with a mission to promote a deeper appreciation of jazz and its connections to various artistic disciplines. Each year, this organization hosts the Celebration of the Arts Festival in the town of Delaware Water Gap during September, showcasing a rich tapestry of artistic expressions.
Phil Woods’ contributions to the world of jazz were acknowledged and celebrated when he received the prestigious “Jazz Master” award from the National Endowment of the Arts in 2007, further cementing his status as a jazz legend.
