Dave Holland: A Life in Jazz
Early Life and Introduction to Music
Born on October 1, 1946, in Wolverhampton, England, Dave Holland’s musical journey began at a very young age. His first instrument was the ukulele, which he taught himself to play at the tender age of four. He then moved on to the guitar, and eventually the bass guitar. At the age of 15, he left school to pursue a career in a pop band. However, his musical interests soon shifted towards jazz, a genre that would become his lifelong passion.
Inspiration and Growth
Holland’s interest in jazz was sparked by an issue of Down Beat magazine, where he saw that Ray Brown had won the critics’ poll for best bass player. Intrigued, he bought a couple of LPs featuring Brown backing pianist Oscar Peterson. He was also inspired by the works of bassists Charles Mingus and Jimmy Garrison. Within a week, Holland traded in his bass guitar for a double bass and began practicing with the records, marking the beginning of his journey into the world of jazz.
Moving to London and Studying Music
In 1964, Holland moved to London, where he played double bass in small venues. He also studied with James Edward Merrett, principal bassist of the Philharmonia Orchestra and later, the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Merrett trained him to sight read and then recommended he apply to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Holland received a full-time scholarship for the three-year program, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of music.
Establishing a Career in Jazz
At the age of 20, Holland was keeping a busy schedule in school, studios, and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, London’s premier jazz club. He often played in bands that supported touring American jazz saxophonists such as Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, and Joe Henderson. He also linked up with other British jazz musicians, including guitarist John McLaughlin, saxophonists Evan Parker and John Surman, South Africa-born London-based pianist Chris McGregor, and drummer John Stevens. These experiences helped him establish a solid foundation in jazz.
Achievements and Contributions
Holland has been performing and recording for five decades and has lived in the United States since the early 1970s. His extensive discography ranges from solo performances to pieces for big band. He runs his own independent record label, Dare2, which he launched in 2005. His contributions to jazz music, both as a performer and a composer, have been significant and have earned him a place among the greats of the genre.
Conclusion
Dave Holland’s journey from a self-taught musician to a renowned jazz artist is truly inspiring. His contributions to jazz music, both as a performer and a composer, have left an indelible mark on the genre. His story serves as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and continuous learning in the pursuit of musical excellence.
- “Music From Two Basses”(with Barre Phillips): This album showcases Holland’s early work in the avant-garde jazz scene, featuring a unique two-bass setup.
- “Conference Of The Birds”(David Holland Quartet): This album is a classic in the avant-garde jazz genre, featuring Holland’s innovative compositions and performances.
- “Emerald Tears”: A solo album that showcases Holland’s virtuosity on the double bass and his ability to create a full and rich sound on his own.
- “Life Cycle”: This album features Holland’s work in the Third Stream genre, a synthesis of jazz and classical music.
- “Jumpin’ In”(Dave Holland Quintet): This post-bop album showcases Holland’s work with a quintet, featuring complex compositions and energetic performances.
- “Extensions”(Dave Holland Quartet): This album is a fusion of different styles, showcasing Holland’s versatility as a musician.
- “Points Of View”(Dave Holland Quintet): This album features post-fusion contemporary jazz, with complex compositions and innovative performances.
- “Prime Directive”(Dave Holland Quintet): This post-bop album showcases Holland’s work with a quintet, featuring complex compositions and energetic performances.
- “Not For Nothin’”(Dave Holland Quintet): This post-bop album features Holland’s quintet, with a focus on complex compositions and group interplay.
- “What Goes Around”(Dave Holland Big Band): This album features Holland’s work with a big band, showcasing his ability to compose and perform in a large ensemble setting.
