André Hodeir: A Symphony in Jazz
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
André Hodeir, born on January 22, 1921, in Paris, France, was a renowned violinist, composer, arranger, and musicologist. His musical journey began at the Conservatoire de Paris, where he was taught by Olivier Messiaen and won first prizes in fugue, harmony, and music history. While pursuing these studies he discovered jazz and various music forms besides jazz and classical. He recorded on violin under the pseudonym “Claude Laurence”.
Career and Musical Innovations
In the 1950s, Hodeir became a member of several bands led by Gregor (Krikor Kelekian), Arthur Briggs, Michel Warlop, Guy Paquinet, and Ray Ventura. He worked with visiting American musicians such as Benny Carter, Adelaide Hall, Coleman Hawkins, Freddy Johnson, and Danny Polo. He was a member of Bill Coleman’s band when it included Argentinian swing guitarist Oscar Aleman. He performed with French singers such as Charles Trenet and Jean Sablon and recorded with Philippe Brun.
Recordings and Performances
Over the years, Hodeir recorded several albums that showcased his unique musical style. Some of his notable albums include “Jazz et Jazz”, “American Jazzmen Play Andre Hodeir’s Essais”, “The Paris Scene”, “Anna Livia Plurabelle”, “Bitter Ending with Les Swingle Singers”, and “The Historic Donaueschingen Jazz Concert 1957 with Eddie Sauter”.
Legacy and Influence
Hodeir’s influence extends beyond his performances and compositions. He has written several books on jazz, which have influenced jazz criticism on both sides of the Atlantic and around the world. His boundless curiosity for any living music brought him in contact with electric jazz in the 1970s, playing at the Riverbop with longtime associate/bassist Jean-François Jenny-Clark, in addition to François Jeanneau, Henri Texier, Charlie Mariano, and Philip Catherine.
- “Jazz et Jazz”– This album showcases Hodeir’s unique approach to jazz, combining classical music with jazz and Latin American rhythms.
- “American Jazzmen Play Andre Hodeir’s Essais”– This album, released in 1957, is a testament to Hodeir’s unique and personal performance style.
- “The Paris Scene”– This 1957 recording showcases Hodeir’s innovative approach to music.
- “Anna Livia Plurabelle”– This album features collaborations with other musicians and showcases Hodeir’s ability to create captivating jazz compositions.
- “Bitter Ending with Les Swingle Singers”– This album features Hodeir’s work with Les Swingle Singers, providing a glimpse into his musical genius.
- “The Historic Donaueschingen Jazz Concert 1957 with Eddie Sauter”– This track showcases Hodeir’s unique musical style.
- “Claude Laurence”– This track provides a glimpse into Hodeir’s musical genius and his ability to create unique jazz compositions.
- “Jazz Groupe de Paris”– This track showcases Hodeir’s incorporation of Latin American rhythms into his music.
- “Gregor (Krikor Kelekian)”– This track provides a comprehensive overview of Hodeir’s musical journey.
- “Arthur Briggs”– This track, released with Arthur Briggs, showcases Hodeir’s unique fusion of classical music with jazz.
