The Note - Winter/Spring 2021 Supplemental Material
Maynard Ferguson “Plays” Al Cohn, by Patrick Dorian
The following is presented as supplemental material for additional interest regarding Pat Dorian’s article on Maynard Ferguson and Al Cohn from the Winter/Spring 2021 Issue of "The Note," published by East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania*.
Noal Cohen - Swingin' and Singin' Analysis
From the article: Upon my informing Noal Cohen about this film, he thoughtfully constructed a basic table (see Performance Segments box) to guide us through its segments, from the use of AC’s theatrical opening “curtain raiser,” “The Wailing Boat,” with MF capping off AC’s work with a sustained double-high C (concert pitch Bb), through each act where MF gets occasional featured phrases, and the “b
The Music and Performance
“The Wailing Boat” by Al Cohn
Al Cohn’s Sketch of “The Wailing Boat,” represented here digitally engraved by Matt Vashlishan and reproduced exactly from AC’s handwriting in terms of notation and layout (notice the repeats, endings and eighth note beaming).
From Pat Dorian’s article:
“The Wailing Boat” sketch is in the key of C, but AC arranged it for MF’s band in the key of Bb. It is dated August 13,
Maynard Ferguson and His Swingin’ Dream Band Orchestra:
Live at Peacock Lane, Hollywood 1956-1957
Fresh Sound Records [FSR-CD 346]
A mid-late 1950s vintage postcard of the Peacock Lane jazz room in Hollywood
Maynard's publicity photo from the 1950s
Universal Studios Recording Contracts
Universal Studio Manager’s Daily Report recording (audio only) contract from December 18, 1956 for the “Maynard Ferguson Musical Short (7157),” listing MF and his musicians. Courtesy of Mark Cantor
Universal Studio Manager’s Daily Report recording (audio only) contract from December 18, 1956 for the “Maynard Ferguson Musical Short (7157),” listing extra musicians. Courtesy of Mark Cantor
Universal Studio Manager’s Daily Report sideline (filming) contract from December 21, 1956 for the “Maynard Ferguson Musical Short (7157),” listing MF and his musicians. Courtesy of Mark Cantor