Liner notes by Mayo Tiana - Director of Jazz Studies
Northeastern Illinois University
When baritone saxophonist Ron Kolber asked me to write the liner notes for his new album, I accepted knowing full well how difficult it could be to write about a friend. Well, that's about as tough as it got.
I've known and worked with Ron for over a decade and the music that keeps pouring out of his horn is special. Not only special to me but to all the musicians that have had the good fortune of sitting in a saxophone section with him, or be in the same room when Ron stands up to play one of those wonderful lyrical solos, or maybe a ballad, (Ron knows all the lyrics). This recording is very special. This is Ron's debut album. Extra special when you consider that Ron's musical career spans five decades. His resume reads like a who's who of the entertainment field, from Sinatra, to Natalie Cole, to the legendary Thad Jones. Ron has made hundreds of recordings, from mainstream jazz with the great Oliver Nelson, to a sixty second commercial spot for an internationally known airline. Ron Kolber has been there, always the consummate professional.
Now, at a time in life when most are retiring from their chosen fields of endeavor, Ron Kolber records his first album as a leader and soloist. Partly at the insistence of his life long friend Arnold Willis, and mostly for his family, wife Mary, sons Steven and David, and daughter Rebecca. "I wanted to do an album that I could involve my family in, you know, a real family affair". "Rebecca would sing on it, Dave could do the art (he is an art teacher), Mary will keep us all from going crazy, and Steve has some original music I can record". As to Steve's original composition, "Line of Sight", it isn't a jazz tune, but as Ron said this is not a jazz album, it's his family affair. The musicians involved on this project are an extension of that family. Gene Esposito, piano, Victor Kaihatu, double bass, and Greg Sergo, drums, are long time friends and colleagues. Rebecca Kolber is featured on four tracks, My One and Only Love, All The Things You Are, Autumn, and Line of Sight. Not only does she share her dad's talent, but this is also her debut recording.
The repertoire for this album was carefully picked by Ron with input from all of the participants. the results are an album that tells a story, the musical story of Ron Kolber. The opening track, It Don't Mean A Thing (Ellington), tells about his musical roots, and his main influences. Listen to the beautiful alto work on Indian Summer, and you know this is a sensitive man with an ear for beauty. The pianoless trio rendition of Softly As In A Morning Sunrise exposes the cool and the modern. Every track, unfolds like a Lotus blossom until at the end of your listening you are left with a greater understanding of Ron's greatest passions in life, his family and his music.
Earlier this year, I had Ron as a guest at Northeastern Illinois University. He was there as a part of a group of fine jazz clinicians from a local Chicago Big Band. I was able to attend both his saxophone clinic and the improvisation lecture that followed. All of the clinicians were very good and had some great things for my students to hear. When they were done, I invited Ron to say a few words. When he was done speaking I asked if he would give us an example of his approach to improvisation. He did, and when the music ended, a room full of college kids knew that they were that much closer to finding their way.
Ron wants to thank both Arnie Willis and Bobby Lewis for their insistence and support. I want to thank Ron for allowing me to be a part of this project. Those that are familiar with Ron's artistry will say it's long overdue. Those that are hearing Ron for the first time are in for a treat. Sit back, enjoy, and welcome to Ron Kolber's family affair.
Mayo Tiana
Director of Jazz Studies
Northeastern Illinois University
