The Joy of Django and Johann Sebastian
Beginning studies of baroque and classic jazz.
Last week I announced my plan to do a deep dive into the literature and life of James Joyce, inspired by
’ heads up about the audio-version of Finnegans Wake on sale for only $8, a true steal. I noted that I'd started using the Wake as a tool to fall asleep at night, hoping that this great novel of the dreamworld would somehow shape my own dreams.Well, it's time to share what I listen to in the mornings and how this Substack will likewise serve as an excuse to dig deeper and learn more about two great musicians who give me so much joy.
My morning routine at this point is to rise usually around 5:30 or 5:45, and then spend an hour or so eating breakfast slowly (I've adopted the grazing diet) while I read and listen to old music. In particular I've become taken with the Baroque era (1600-1750) and the early jazz period, the 1920s-1950 or thereabouts.
To this end, the deep dives I'll begin will start with Johann Sebastian Bach and Django Reinhardt. I'll share classic tracks from each available on YouTube, as well as historical information and analysis of their music. I will offer each together, so you can select whether you’re more in the mood for Johann or Django
In exploring these artists and genres, I am admittedly an absolute amateur. Music has never been my strength at all. I played flue through 6th-10th grade, ultimately quitting because I just wasn't that good. I was never outright terrible and could certainly keep up in band classes, but I usually managed second or third-to-last chair and knew that I just didn't have the technical skill or the ear or the discipline here, particularly not when I already knew that writing would likely be the professional direction to pursue.
So my efforts here are as educational for me as they likely will be for many of our readers who likewise enjoy these musicians but don't have the knowledge or practical musical experience to appreciate them to the depth that they might like.
And for those of you who do have musical talents and knowledge, the please do share with the rest of the class so we can learn from your insights.