Getz and Fiedler experiment

— Helene Wong

Tanglewood, summer "camp" for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, was the venue last year for a concert recorded "live" on the RCA Victor release "Stan Getz and Arthur Fiedler at Tanglewood" (Stereo LSC 2925).

It is a fascinating performance experimenting with new modes of expression for the dominant combination of tenor sax and strings, particularly in the 15 minute "Tanglewood Concerto". Conductor Fiedler attempts to maintain a delicate balance between the moods of Getz's sax and the sympathetic weavings of the orchestra, and on some of the arrangements enlists the aid of Gary Burton on vibes, Jim Hall on guitar, Steve Swallow (bass), and Roy Haynes (drums), to boost the jazz tone.

Despite the virtuosity of the orchestra, however, it is the sax which leaves the final impression—the ecstatic heights and depths of its range, and the subtle flute-like notes contrasting with strong, confident summon calls.

Of course, no Stan Getz performance is complete without a nod to 'The Girl from Ipanema"; in fact, the opening track is an upswept, up-tempo version of this. Despite its scintillating hypertension, however, I still prefer the original, with its wistful tones and slower, smoother pace.

On the whole, the record is a fine example of what can be achieved when two apparent diverse musical styles collaborate to create something new, particularly with such masters as Fiedler and Getz doing the creating.