Somehow, trumpet is the reference point for me – it was actually my first instrument. Pat Metheny Read Quote
For me, let’s keep jazz as folk music. Let’s not make jazz classical music. Let’s keep it as street music, as people’s everyday-life music. Let’s see jazz musicians continue to use the materials, the tools, the spirit of the actual time that they’re living in, as what they build their lives as musicians around. Pat Metheny Read Quote
When talking about writing, I often use the analogy of archaeology. There are these great tunes all around. Your skill as a musician allows you to pick them out without breaking them. Pat Metheny Read Quote
No two notes are ever the same volume. With the guitar, you really have to model in your mind this wider thing; you’re trying to create the illusion of a bigger dynamic range. Pat Metheny Read Quote
There are some musicians who are talented and see themselves as some kind of natural geniuses or something because of a certain amount of natural ability. But that is often rarely the case over the long term. Pat Metheny Read Quote
I can’t really say enough about Chris Potter. He is one of the greatest musicians I have ever known, and every second I have been on the band stand with him has been an absolute pleasure. Pat Metheny Read Quote
A lot of jazz artists think people should like what they’re doing just because it’s jazz. I don’t buy that. Pat Metheny Read Quote
I didn’t want there to be a computer on stage. When I see people with computers on stage, I think, ‘Are you sending e-mail?’ That’s so corny. Pat Metheny Read Quote
I used to love going and playing jam sessions, doing things spontaneously. I can’t do that anymore. Everything you do is documented, nothing is casual anymore. Pat Metheny Read Quote
I’m triggering acoustic instruments. I’m literally beating, smacking, hitting, blowing, doing physical things. It’s an incredibly exciting way to make music. Pat Metheny Read Quote
