To be a true artist you have to play the way you feel - not the way others think you should feel.
More Quotes from Don Ellis:
It is my belief that there is a tendency among the so-called 'modern' or 'hip' jazz musicians to consider styles other that their own, 'corny', and it is my contention that in actuality it is these musicians who are producing that which in future years perceptive critics will deem 'corny'.Don Ellis
Why should a craftsman not make use of all his tools if they will promote a greater communication and expressiveness This is not to deny that beautiful things can be fashioned out of very modest means, but what possible objection can there be towards an artist trying to be more resourceful
Don Ellis
Because when we are right there is not a band in the world that can touch us!
Don Ellis
I expect the audience to come up to my level. I am not interested in compromising my music to make it palatable to an assumed sub-standard mass.
Don Ellis
The truth in the matter lies in the fact that anything repeated too long without variation tends to become boring.
Don Ellis
On those long notes behind the trumpet solo, if anyone lets his mind wander for a minute he is dead.
Don Ellis
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For your benefit, learn from our tragedy. It is not a written law that the next victims must be Jews. It can also be other people.Simon Wiesenthal
The public is wiser than the wisest critic.
George Bancroft
College isn't the place to go for ideas.
Helen Keller