I’ve just learnt of Ira Gitler’s passing. Although much has been said about his career as a jazz critic and producer, one fact failed to be mentioned because it’s so blatantly obvious— with a few others, he was the creator, the architect and pioneer of a whole writing genre : the jazz liner notes. Because of his proximity with the musicians and critical flair, every one of his comment was relevant. In this respect, his contribution to the history of jazz is huge and his work is here to stay. He was a funny writer, a major story-teller and a cultural beacon.
I’m glad I got to spend some meaningful time with him in Foix, in the French Pyrénées in 2010, a festival that we were both reviewing for Jazz Hot and DownBeat. Significantly, we were able to listen to music together: Charles McPherson, Kenny Barron, Curtis Fuller, Charles Davis… He was someone who would share his knowledge, delight with his tales, inspire with his insight. Jazz writing at its best.
So long, Ira.
