Product Review

The best way to hone a craft is through apprenticeship to a master. Occasionally, there is a give and take between the two involved that can foster mutual growth and exploration. Legendary saxophonist Lee Konitz has never shied from opportunities to play with far younger musicians to both challenge himself and to pass on knowledge garnered over his extraordinary career. On the new CD Duos With Lee, Konitz partners with an extremely talented musician 50 years his junior, pianist Dan Tepfer. Konitz is no stranger to duo recordings and finds a receptive accomplice in Tepfer who can follow KonitzÕs renowned melodic flights and provide his own intriguing ruminations. While KonitzÕs career is well known, Tepfer is an up and coming performer who has already received much critical attention. The Brooklyn based pianist has collaborated with a number of highly regarded musicians including Steve Lacy, Bob Brookmeyer and Charles McPherson. Duos With Lee finds two musicians musicians at two very different points of their careers joining together to improvise and make a musical statement.