The bandstand is an incredible space. It is really a sacred space. One of the things that is really sacred about it is that you have no opportunity to think about the future, or the past.
Stefon HarrisI think when you look back at the different eras in jazz, what leads from one to another is never a melodic revolution, but a rhythmic revolution.
Stefon HarrisI love Amsterdam. The city is vibrant and alive. It's fresh and so open. It's definitely one of my favorite places.
Stefon HarrisIf I play the melody, even if I play it in an abstract manner, it's instantly recognizable. Even when I was studying to be a classical percussionist, I think I was a more lyrical percussionist; melody is the heart and soul of the music.
Stefon HarrisThe way I look at music, what I'm interested in is not necessarily creativity - in many ways I think creativity is overrated, actually. What I think is important is authenticity. I want to hear music that has the resonance of the people. I want to hear music that is an amplification of them. Because then, I can experience the people. But because the music has become so institutionalized, everyone is learning and regurgitating the same material in the same way.
Stefon Harris